Spencer Leniu Slams Rugby League Pay Gap as New Great-Grandparent Eligibility Rule Is Approved

International Rugby League chairman Troy Grant defended the decision to permit players to represent the nation where one of their great-grandparents was born, as Samoa forward Spencer Leniu lashed out at World Cup organisers, smh.com.au reported on November 9, 2026.

The new eligibility rules were announced in Sydney on Monday as the Pacific and the United States were confirmed as the host of the next World Cup in 2030. Leniu took aim at the huge gulf in player payments at the tournament while facing a grade-three charge over an incident during Samoa’s 44-12 semi-final defeat to Australia.

Players from other countries received $850 an appearance at the tournament, while members of the Australian team receive $40,000 each under the Rugby League Players’ Association’s collective bargaining agreement with the Australian Rugby League Commission. Leniu wrote in a social media post that their little nations carried the World Cup while being paid $850 a game compared to the Australians.

The incoming Parramatta enforcer is facing a two-game suspension for making a gesture towards referee Adam Gee. He stated that it was no secret organisers used their people to sell games and that smaller nations should be properly compensated for it.

The 2030 tournament will be organised by the ARL Commission in a Magic Round-style format.

The eligibility change stemmed from an application by the Cook Islands and coach Karmichael Hunt. While players previously qualified through parents or grandparents, they can now use the nation of birth of any of their eight great-grandparents.

Troy Grant stated that the rule gives every player the opportunity to represent their nation and ensures fans get the best outcomes. The IRL board also voted unanimously for the change, 7NEWS reported, making rugby league unique compared to sports like football and rugby union that use a grandparent rule.

Grant cited Canberra fullback Kaeo Weekes as a player who could have represented the Cook Islands under the updated regulations. Meanwhile, AAP reported that it remains unclear how many total players will become eligible under the new structure.

Kiwis great Shaun Johnson backed the move to support the depth of smaller nations. The IRL board has also committed to exploring the elevation of Tonga and Samoa to tier-one status following their strong performances.

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