Penrith halfback Nathan Cleary and Broncos superstar Tamika Upton have been crowned the 2026 Dally M Medal winners in a glittering ceremony overnight.
Cleary claimed his first men’s medal in dominant fashion, finishing 14 points clear of runner-up Braydon Trindall, while Upton secured her third female champion crown in a tight finish against Raecene McGregor.
The Panthers halfback wasn’t able to collect his award in person as he continues to recover at home following leg surgery, instead sending in a video message that was played to the crowd.
“In terms of my thank you’s, I want to start off by saying how grateful I am for everyone’s support over the last few days,” Cleary said in the pre-recorded video.
“I want to start by thanking all of my teammates. None of this would be possible without them.
“No individual award is ever achievable without the help of teammates and I can’t thank those guys enough.
“I want to extend that to the coaching staff. They make the club an enjoyable place to come into, and I think that’s what gets the best out of all of us players when you’re coming to work, and you feel safe, you feel connected, you feel happy.
“Also, my parents and my family.
“They’ve done everything for me. They’ve sacrificed so much and put so much time and effort into me growing up, but now even in my older years, this whole year I’ve actually been living at home with them because my house is getting fixed, so they’ve looked after me well this year and yeah, I can’t pay them enough.
Cleary finished by acknowledging his partner, Matildas star Mary Fowler.
“I also want to say a big thanks to my partner. It’s tough doing the long distance, but she always makes me feel supported and loved, and that’s all I’ve ever asked for, and she’s just amazing.”
The triumph capped off a record-breaking season for rugby league, which saw all-time highs in attendances, broadcast viewership, and player participation across the country.
Tamika Upton claims her third Dally M Medal | Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images
ARLC Executive Chairman Peter V’landys congratulated the winners on another successful season.
“Our players deserve all the credit. Week after week, they have delivered the skill, courage and fierce competition that makes our game so compelling and powerful,” V’landys said.
“To all our winners, congratulations. These honours recognise exceptional achievement, but also the years of hard work, sacrifice and determination behind it.
“You should be immensely proud of what you have accomplished and what you have given your teammates, your clubs and your supporters.”
