With whispers growing louder about Roger Tuivasa-Sheck’s potential switch to a Saudi-backed rebel competition, Warriors CEO Cameron George has urged calm, while acknowledging the financial firepower that Rugby 360 could bring.
The proposed “R360” tournament, backed by investors reportedly including Saudi interests, is aiming for a 2026 launch with 12 teams and 300 players on its books.
Tuivasa-Sheck, currently 31 and on his second stint with the Warriors, is rumoured to be in talks over a $1 million-per-season deal, raising alarm bells across the NRL.
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A threat, but not an existential one
George, speaking on 1170 Breakfast, admitted the R360 movement is gaining traction but dismissed the idea that it would gut rugby league.
“I heard a number of our major names in league will be attraction to them; I think it’s real, but will it tear league apart? Absolutely not,” George said. “They will cause some clubs headaches with the financial windfalls on offer.”
He stressed that the NRL must be proactive to retain its top talent in the face of the challenge.
“Our job is to make sure we retain our No. 1 spot in sport. NRL is doing a good job, but we can’t sit on our hands,” he warned.
Former dual-code star Mat Rogers was less optimistic, saying the money on offer, up to AUD $3.1 million a season for elite players, could quickly shift the balance.
“When the Saudis come with a loaded chequebook… rugby league need to be worried,” Rogers said on SEN 1170 Sportsday. “They will not have a salary cap, and if they want a player, they’ll get a player.”