Leo Thompson

Leo Thompson (born 28 May 2000) is a New Zealand professional rugby league footballer who plays for the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs in the National Rugby League. His position is .

Background Born in Muriwai, Gisborne, New Zealand, Thompson is of Māori descent. He played rugby union as a youth, before being signed by the Canberra Raiders.

Thompson is the identical twin brother of Knights teammate Tyrone Thompson.

Playing career

Early years Thompson was a part of the Canberra Raiders' Jersey Flegg Cup team in 2020 and 2021. Ahead of the 2022 season, he signed a 2-year contract with the Newcastle Knights.

2022 In March, Thompson had his Knights contract upgraded from a development contract to a Top 30 contract, allowing him to join the NRL squad. In round 1 of the 2022 NRL season, he made his NRL debut for the Knights against the Sydney Roosters.

In July, Thompson had his contract extended until the end of 2025.

2023 Thompson played a total of 25 matches for Newcastle in the 2023 NRL season as the club finished 5th on the table. Thompson played in both finals games as Newcastle were eliminated in the second week of the finals by the New Zealand Warriors.

2024 Thompson played 23 games for Newcastle in the 2024 NRL season as the club finished 8th and qualified for the finals. He played in their elimination finals loss against North Queensland.

2025 On 3 January, Thompson signed a four-year deal to join the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs from 2026 onwards. Thompson played 16 games for Newcastle in the 2025 NRL season as the club finished bottom of the table receiving the Wooden Spoon.

Statistics