NRL Tightens Anti-Tampering Regulations

The National Rugby League (NRL) has issued a formal directive to all Clubs and Accredited Player Agents regarding a strategic overhaul of the NRL Anti-Tampering Rules, set to commence on February 1, 2026.

This move, developed in collaboration with the Rugby League Players Association (RLPA) as part of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), represents a shift in the organisation’s approach to player movement and contractual governance.

Under the new framework, the definition of tampering has been expanded to explicitly prohibit parties from interfering in contract discussions through public statements.

This means the program now captures “any expression of interest – public or private – made to anyone involved or related to player contracting or through the media, aimed at securing or providing a player’s services during periods when the NRL Rules prohibit player negotiations.”

The regulation is designed to protect a Club’s negotiation rights and prevent the emerging practice of using public commentary to lure or entice athletes currently under employment.

Commenting further on the new directive, the league, said: “Tampering is not a new concept and has existed in the NRL Rules for a significant time.”

“Under the current Collective Bargaining Agreement, the NRL and RLPA agreed to strengthen these rules to protect the game and address an emerging practice across the player contracting landscape.”

“The changes are aimed at fostering a more professional contracting environment that improves integrity, transparency and good faith in all dealings.” 

The organisation has established severe deterrents for non-compliance. Penalties for breaching these rules include heavy financial sanctions for Clubs, Players, and Agents, alongside salary cap deductions.

In the most serious cases, the NRL reserves the right to enforce the deregistration of Club Officials, agents, and players to preserve the honour and integrity of the competition.

Exemptions remain for players in the final year of their contract or when an incumbent Club provides written permission to negotiate elsewhere.

To ensure a smooth transition, the NRL will provide a comprehensive education program for all stakeholders prior to the February deadline.

The league aims to further preserve the integrity of NRL Playing Contracts and provide additional protections to both athletes and their employers, ensuring that a recognisable standard of professional conduct is maintained across the player market.

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