It’s Official! Future Secured: Bulldogs Lock In Star Duo with $1.6 Million Deal
The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs have officially locked in two of their brightest young stars, announcing contract extensions worth a combined $1.6 million. The club confirmed today that the talented duo will remain in Belmore until at least the end of the 2027 NRL season, marking a major coup for the club’s long-term ambitions.
Rising stars Karl Oloapu and Jacob Preston have both put pen to paper on multi-year extensions, reinforcing the Bulldogs’ faith in their youth-focused rebuild. The re-signings are seen as a huge boost for head coach Cameron Ciraldo, who has made it clear the club is committed to developing and retaining its core of young talent.
Oloapu, 19, made headlines last year as one of the most promising teenage playmakers in the game. Despite battling injuries early in his NRL career, his potential as a dynamic ball-runner and playmaker has the club excited about his future. The Bulldogs reportedly fought off interest from several rival clubs to retain the Junior Kangaroos representative.
Meanwhile, 23-year-old Jacob Preston has emerged as a revelation in the Bulldogs’ forward pack since making his debut in 2023. Known for his work rate, toughness, and leadership qualities beyond his years, Preston quickly became a fan favourite at Belmore. His consistency and impact on both sides of the ball earned him the club’s Rookie of the Year honours and now a well-deserved contract upgrade.
Speaking about the extensions, Bulldogs General Manager of Football Phil Gould said the signings demonstrate the club’s strategic planning.
“We’re thrilled to have Karl and Jacob locked in for the long term,” said Gould. “They’re both outstanding young men who represent everything we want the Bulldogs to be about — hard work, resilience, and loyalty. These deals show we’re building something special here.”
The $1.6 million investment highlights the Bulldogs’ confidence in their future stars and sends a clear message to the competition that the club is serious about its resurgence.
Both players expressed gratitude for the faith shown in them and a strong desire to repay the club.
“I’m honoured to be part of this club for the next few years,” said Oloapu. “Belmore feels like home.”
Preston echoed the sentiment: “I love this team, and I’m proud to keep building with this group.”
With their futures secured, Bulldogs fans can look forward to seeing two of the game’s most exciting young talents grow and thrive in the blue and white.
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