Castleford Tigers have signed star player Krystian Mapapalangi to a long-term deal in what director of rugby Chris Chester has labelled a ‘significant signing’.
The Tigers signed a host of players in the off-season but none have had the impact that NRL recruit Mapapalangi has had and Castleford boss Ryan Carr has fielded questions almost every week about the centre’s future.
Mapapalangi was signed on a two-year deal but Carr made it clear he viewed the former NRL man as someone to build a club around and he’s now got that wish with the the 23-year-old signing a three-year contract extension that ties him to the club until the end of the 2029 season.
It’s a major retention and one that will offer even more security to the centre whose game should only flourish from that, or at least Castleford will hope that’s the case.
Confirming the news, the Tigers shared a statement saying: “Castleford Tigers are delighted to announce that Krystian Mapapalangi has signed a new long-term contract, committing his future to the Club until the end of the 2029 season.”
Leeds Rhinos star’s controversial charge, inconsistent Hull FC and Challenge Cup predictions – Click here to watch the latest episode of the Serious About Rugby League Show
Castleford Tigers sign Krystian Mapapalangi to long-term deal
Mapapalangi’s six tries and four assists in nine Super League games means he leads the way for try contributions at the club and the 23-year-old spoke after signing his new deal about how much he’s enjoyed life in West Yorkshire so far.
“Really pleased, we finally got the deal done and that’s what matters, so I’m happy,” the 23-year-old said.
“I’m playing good footy and I didn’t want to move, it’s really suited my style playing here with the boys.
“I’m really enjoying my footy as you can tell on the weekends, I’m building connections each week and I’m happy to be doing that into the future.”
Director of rugby Chris Chester echoed Ryan Carr’s sentiments about building a club around the centre as expressed ‘delight’ at getting the deal done.
On Mapapalangi, he said: “He’s been a great addition to our squad and has made an unbelievable impact on the field so far this year.
“I have a great relationship with Mapz going back a few years now, and to have him at the club for the next three years is a significant signing for the Club.
“He is exactly the type of player we want to build a club around.”
🙌 3 More For Maps 📜✍️ #COYF #Mapapalangi pic.twitter.com/Ff7sOIM8sC
— Castleford Tigers (@CTRLFC) May 6, 2026
John Dalton
May 7, 2026 at 8:39 am
Now all they need is the rest of the team!