The National Rugby League (NRL) has issued a $40,000 fine to the North Sydney Bears and coach Wayne Meninga for violating the league’s new anti-tampering rule, dubbed the “Gus rule.” The breach stemmed from Meninga’s public statements regarding the potential recruitment of players currently contracted to the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs. The NRL implemented the rule to prevent public discussion of players not currently free agents, aiming to protect the integrity of player contracts. This incident marks the first time the new rule has been enforced. The league effectively fined itself, as the Bears are owned by the NRL. The penalty serves as a warning to all clubs regarding permissible recruitment practices and public commentary. Both Meninga and the Bears have accepted the sanction.