Bulldogs back announces sudden retirement from game

Canterbury Bulldogs winger Marcelo Montoya has announced he will retire from the NRL at the conclusion of the 2026 season, bringing the curtain down on a career spanning more than 160 first-grade appearances.

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The 30-year-old confirmed the decision on Tuesday, ending a journey that began as a junior with the Bankstown Bulls before progressing through the Bulldogs’ pathways system and into the NRL.

«I started my career here so it feels right to also finish it as a Bulldog, from the kid running around for the Bankstown Bulls to playing in NRL Finals series and representing my culture on the biggest stages, I’ll be forever grateful for the opportunities rugby league has given myself and my family.» Motoya said.

«While I’m excited for the next chapter, I’m 100 per cent focused on finishing this season off strongly and hopefully doing something special with my brothers.» Montoya continued.

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Montoya made his first-grade debut for Canterbury in Round 3 of the 2017 season and immediately made an impression, scoring a try in a victory over the New Zealand Warriors. He would go on to finish his rookie campaign with 12 tries from 19 appearances and claim the Bulldogs’ Steve Mortimer Rookie of the Year award.

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After establishing himself at Belmore, Montoya joined the New Zealand Warriors ahead of the 2021 season, where he spent four years building a reputation as one of the competition’s hardest-working outside backs.

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The Fijian international returned home to the Bulldogs for the 2025 season and has remained an important member of Cameron Ciraldo’s squad, playing 26 matches across the past two years.

Beyond his on-field contributions, Montoya has been widely respected for his leadership and professionalism, qualities that have made him a valued figure within both the Bulldogs and Warriors organisations throughout his career.

Montoya has also proudly represented Fiji on nine occasions, featuring on the international stage while maintaining his reputation as a reliable and high-energy winger.

While retirement is now on the horizon, Montoya made it clear his focus remains firmly on helping Canterbury finish the 2026 campaign strongly with the club fighting to secure a final place after a challenging 2026 so far.

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