A Rugby Star’s Unusual Involvement in the NRL
Mike Tindall, a former England rugby star and now a member of the British Royal Family, recently made headlines for his unexpected presence at one of the most significant events in Australian rugby league: the 2025 State of Origin III. His appearance at the game, which saw Queensland defeat New South Wales in a thrilling final match, has sparked discussions about the future of rugby and the potential for competition between different codes.
Tindall was not just an ordinary spectator; he was a special guest of Queensland coach Billy Slater. This connection came about after Tindall and Slater met at a polo event in Queensland in January 2024. Their friendship quickly blossomed, leading to Tindall being invited to the match as a guest of honor.
The former international player shared his experience on Instagram, posting behind-the-scenes photos and videos that gave fans a glimpse into the action. He even gained access to the Maroons’ dressing room, a privilege typically reserved for players and officials. His posts highlighted the incredible atmosphere and the emotional performance of the team, expressing gratitude to Slater and his wife, Nicole Roseart, for their hospitality.
However, Tindall’s involvement has raised eyebrows among rugby league officials. As a key ambassador for the breakaway rugby union competition R360, his attendance at the NRL game could signal a new era of competition between the two codes. R360, which aims to launch in September 2026, is backed by major investors and elite sports franchises. The competition plans to bring together around 300 top international players across eight men’s and four women’s teams, offering lucrative contracts and unique match-day experiences.
With the NRL expanding from 17 to 19 teams in the coming years, the battle for talent is intensifying. Tindall’s role in R360 suggests that the competition for players will become even more fierce. Several high-profile NRL players have already been linked to the rebel league, including:
- Kalyn Ponga (Newcastle Knights): Known for his openness to exploring options outside rugby league, Ponga could be a prime target for R360.
- Ryan Papenhuyzen (Melbourne Storm): Currently weighing a multi-million dollar offer as his contract expires in 2026.
- Roger Tuivasa-Sheck (New Zealand Warriors): Reports suggest he could be offered a contract worth around $1.5 million per season.
- Nathan Cleary (Penrith Panthers): A marquee name with speculation of a potential $3 million annual offer.
These developments indicate that the rugby landscape is on the brink of significant change. With R360 poised to challenge the traditional structures of the sport, the next few years may witness a realignment of talent and resources across both rugby league and union. As the competition heats up, fans and officials alike will be watching closely to see how this evolving story unfolds.
