Josh Addo-Carr sends a sad message to Bulldogs fans after the club sacked him for testing positive to cocaine and not coming clean about it

  • Winger was officially fired by the Bulldogs on Thursday
  • Addo-Carr has steadfastly denied using cocaine

Josh Addo-Carr has delivered an emotional message to fans after his Bulldogs career ended when the club terminated his contract following a board meeting on Thursday afternoon.

The decision comes after the winger tested positive for cocaine following a roadside drug test in September, withdrawing from the club’s first finals match in eight years.

Addo-Carr had given a version of events that led to the club backing him at the time, but officials were angered when his statements did not match police evidence.

The winger released a short statement thanking his fans during his time at Belmore.

“To all Bulldogs fans and family, thank you for an unforgettable three years. The love and support you have shown me since I arrived at Belmore has always been amazing and the memories will last forever,” he posted.

‘Bulldogs Sponsors and Board thank you for your continued support, I appreciate you all.

‘I would also like to thank my teammates and technical staff. We built a brotherhood that will last forever and that our time together both on and off the field will be missed.

Josh Addo-Carr is now a free agent after being fired by the Bulldogs despite insisting he didn’t use cocaine

Addo-Carr was sacked by the Bulldogs after pleading his case at the club's headquarters in Belmore (pictured)

Addo-Carr was sacked by the Bulldogs after pleading his case at the club’s headquarters in Belmore (pictured)

“I came to the Bulldogs in 2022, a time when the club was struggling and at a low point.

“I wanted to help return the club to the powerhouse it once was, and most importantly, I wanted to help build a winning culture,” Addo-Carr continued.

‘I am proud that I can be part of that turnaround in three years’ time.

“Unfortunately, circumstances do not allow me to be with the Bulldogs any longer, but I wish the club, my teammates and especially the fan nothing but success.”

The former winger was issued an infringement notice by the NRL at the time, with the Bulldogs announcing on Thursday evening that the prolific try scorer had played his final game for the club.

The Eels and Dragons have been linked to his services for the 2025 season, with Addo-Carr set to become one of the most in-demand players on the open market.

Addo-Carr's future remains unclear, but he has issued a sad statement thanking Bulldogs fans

Addo-Carr’s future remains unclear, but he has issued a sad statement thanking Bulldogs fans

“The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Football Club today announces the termination of Josh Addo-Carr’s player contract, with immediate effect. This decision has not been taken lightly and follows careful consideration by the board,” the club statement said.

“Josh has been an important part of our club over the past three seasons. During this time he has provided many memorable moments for our members and fans. We understand Josh’s popularity with our passionate supporters and we share their disappointment that his time at the club has ended in this way.

‘However, this season has shown how important it is to build a culture based on clear norms and values.

“Although the NRL Integrity Unit has completed its investigation and imposed a four-match ban, the club considers the combination of the failed drug test and subsequent lack of transparency to be serious breaches of Josh’s contractual obligations and the standards of our club.

‘Supporting our players remains a fundamental priority for our club, with extensive wellbeing programs that go far beyond just football. While we will always stand by our players in difficult times, we can only do this effectively if there is full trust and transparency.

“We wish Josh and his family the best for the future. Our wellness team will continue to be available to Josh and his family during this transition.

“The club would have no further comment on this matter at this time.”

Canterbury-Bankstown BulldogsNRL