The NRL has moved to tighten its anti-tampering rules, issuing a strong warning to clubs and agents that public commentary about rival players could now attract serious sanctions.
The changes are designed to prevent clubs and accredited agents from influencing contract negotiations through media appearances, podcasts or commentary roles.
There is little doubt that growing fan frustration around players leaving clubs while still contracted has contributed to the NRL’s decision to act, with the governing body attempting to curb behaviour from players, clubs and agents that can agitate exits from rival teams.
From February 1, new regulations will expand the definition of tampering to include certain public and private statements that could be interpreted as attempts to lure or entice a player who is under contract at another club according to reports at the Daily Telegraph.
MORE: Asofa-Solomona keen to fight Paul Gallen
High-profile figures who hold dual roles within the game — such as club officials who also work as broadcasters or pundits — are expected to come under increased scrutiny, with Phil Gould viewed as a prime example given the various roles he holds.
While there are several potential cases, Gould appears among those most impacted due to his positions with Canterbury, Channel Nine and within media and podcasting, where he has frequently spoken about players and their contract situations.
The NRL confirmed the updated policy was developed in conjunction with the RLPA and aligns with the current collective bargaining agreement.
Under the strengthened framework, penalties are now much more severe and may include financial fines, salary cap sanctions and, in the most serious cases, deregistration of club officials, accredited agents or players.
The governing body stressed the rules are designed to protect clubs’ contractual and negotiation rights while players remain under agreement and the reality is they have been a long time coming.
While clubs have already been advised of the changes, the NRL noted enforcement will only begin once the regulations formally take effect in February with education sessions to be provided to ensure all parties understand the new expectations.
The NRL also clarified that public comments will not be considered tampering if a player has been granted formal permission by their club to negotiate elsewhere - an important caveat.
The crackdown signals a clear intent from the NRL to curb growing concerns around public speculation and commentary influencing player movement across the competition.
Anti-tampering enforcement has long been viewed as a grey area within the game, and while the new rules and strong language represent a shift, it may ultimately take decisive action before the league’s resolve is fully tested.
One thing is certain: fans and the broader game have grown tired of contracted players being publicly used in bargaining and transfer speculation, and the NRL appears ready to take those grievances seriously.