Craig Fitzgibbon has re-signed with the Sharks until the end of 2029 in a major show of faith from the club towards their head coach.

Since taking over the job four years ago, Fitzgibbon has lifted Cronulla into the top eight every season and made the past two preliminary finals.

Fitzgibbon was already signed until the end of next year, but Sharks officials have opted to push the button and secure his services long-term.

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The extension comes after a rocky start to the year, which has seen the side heavily beaten in back-to-back games against the Panthers and Dolphins.

Craig Fitzgibbon. Getty

“We have a talented and hard-working playing group, outstanding staff and we’ve received strong support for what we are trying to achieve,” Fitzgibbon said.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity and stability with our staff, and I’m excited to continue our development together.

“The journey is ongoing, I have faith in what we are doing and what we’ve been able to achieve so far and look forward to creating stronger connections and a successful environment, both for this current season and for the years to come.”

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Fitzgibbon’s new deal could see him become Cronulla’s longest-tenured coach, having already been at the helm for 116 matches.

John Lang holds the club record with 211 matches.

Sharks chief executive Dino Mezzatesta believes the extension signals the intention of the club towards on-field success and adding a second title to the trophy cabinet.

“Stability, especially when experiencing the level of success and when considering how close we are to achieving our goals, is crucial and Craig has helped to create a winning culture here at the Sharks,” Mezzatesta said.

Craig Fitzgibbon. Getty

“It was important we continue on our current path, with him at the helm. We think the sky is the limit for our NRL team and our football program under his leadership.

“What we are developing both on and off the field continues to strengthen each year.”

Fitzgibbon was one of the best back-rowers of his generation, playing 19 Tests for the Kangaroos and representing NSW on 11 occasions, as well as featuring in the Sydney Roosters’ 2002 grand final and winning the Clive Churchill Medal.

After retiring, Fitzgibbon did a lengthy apprenticeship at the Roosters and was part of three premierships under Trent Robinson in 2013, 2018 and 2019.