Richmond’s Noah Balta Secures Future with Seven-Year Contract Extension

AFL club Richmond has successfully secured the services of key position talent Noah Balta for an extended period, following an agreement on a seven-year contract extension. According to reports from AFL.com.au, this will see Balta, currently 24 years old, remain with the club until the conclusion of the 2032 season.

Balta, who was initially drafted at pick No. 25 in the 2017 AFL Draft, has carved out a significant role at Richmond both in the defensive and forward lines. Over the current season, he demonstrated his versatility by averaging six marks per game and contributing 12 goals, underscoring his value to the team’s structure.

Blair Hartley, Richmond’s General Manager of Football Talent, expressed enthusiasm regarding Balta’s long-term commitment. “Noah is crucial to us with his versatility and his aerial prowess. His ongoing development is something we are excited to continue nurturing,” Hartley remarked.

Balta made his debut in 2019 and became a fixture in the AFL side by the 2020 season, playing a significant part in Richmond’s premiership success. He continued to impact games this season, including a standout performance against Carlton in Round 1, where he secured 23 disposals and kicked three goals, and an impressive defensive display against Adelaide in Round 14.

Looking to the future, Balta expressed his loyalty to Richmond, saying, “I want to repay the support from players like David Astbury, Alex Rance, and Dylan Grimes who pushed me. I cannot envision myself elsewhere, and I’m eager for the collective hard work ahead.”

The extension arrives amidst a busy trade period for Richmond. The club is poised to navigate several roster changes, including the confirmed departure of Jack Graham to the West Coast Eagles. Additionally, Shai Bolton and Daniel Rioli have requested trades, potentially freeing up salary cap space for the Tigers.

Balta joins a select group of players, including Max King and Aaron Naughton, who have contracts extending to 2032, illustrating Richmond’s strategic vision for their squad’s future structure and success.