‘Serious breaches of Josh’s contractual obligations’: Addo-Carr sacked by the Bulldogs

The Bulldogs have made a call on Josh Addo-Carr’s future, with the star winger on the hunt for a new club after he was sacked.

Josh Addo-Carr’s career at the Bulldogs is officially over after the club terminated his contract following a board meeting on Thursday afternoon.

The decision comes after the winger tested positive to cocaine following a road side drug test in September that saw him stand himself down for the club’s first finals match in eight years which they ultimately lost to Manly.

Addo-Carr had given a version of events to the club which is why the club backed him at the time, but it turned out some of the details weren’t correct which angered officials, with the winger adamant he didn’t knowingly take any drugs.

Josh Addo-Carr was sacked by the Bulldogs after pleading his case in Belmore. Picture: Jonathan Ng

The former representative winger was issued a breach notice by the NRL at the time, with the Bulldogs announcing on Thursday night that the prolific try-scorer had played his final game for the club.

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

“The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs football club today announces the termination of Josh Addo-Carr’s playing contract, effective immediately. This decision was not made lightly and follows careful consideration by the board,” a club statement read.

“Josh has been a significant 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 supporter base, and we share their disappointment that his time with the club has ended this way.

Phil Gould fronted the media last month to explain the Addo-Carr situation. Picture: NewsWire / Gaye Gerard

“However, this season has demonstrated the importance of building a culture based on clear standards and values.

“While the NRL Integrity Unit has completed its investigation and imposed a four-match suspension, the club views the combination of the failed drug test and subsequent lack of transparency as serious breaches of Josh’s contractual obligations and our club’s standards.

“Supporting our players remains a fundamental priority for our club, with comprehensive welfare programs that go well beyond just football. While we will always stand by our players through difficult times, we can only do this effectively when there is complete trust and transparency.

“We wish Josh and his family well for the future. Our welfare team remains available to Josh and his family during this transition.

“The club will not be making any further comment on this matter at this time.”

Originally published as ‘Serious breaches of Josh’s contractual obligations’: Addo-Carr sacked by the Bulldogs