NRL announce four new rule changes for 2026

The NRL has announced four new rule changes ahead of the upcoming 2026 Premiership season.

After an extensive consultation process involving club officials, players, coaches and key stakeholders of the game, the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) confirmed the following changes:

• Trainers will be restricted from entering the field of play to prescribed and clearly defined circumstances. This will ensure player safety remains the priority while reducing unnecessary intrusions by Trainers carrying messages.

• Teams may interchange four players, up to eight times per match, from a squad of six players (players 14 to 19 inclusive).

• There will be no seven-tackle set following a knock-on in-goal by the attacking team.

• For certain infringements beyond the 20-metre line, the tackle count will restart, replacing the current 40-metre threshold.

Despite heavy speculation, the ARLC confirmed there would be no change to the kick-off rule for the 2026 season. South Sydney Rabbitohs coach Wayne Bennett led the call for the team who conceded points to receive the ensuing kick off.

The team who scored points will continue to receive the kick off.

ARLC Chair Peter V’landys expressed his content at the overall process that resulted in four new rule changes.

“The consultation process was thorough and constructive, and while there was initial support for the kick-off proposal, stakeholders raised legitimate concerns,” V’landys said in a statement.

“After weighing that feedback carefully, the Commission determined that it was not in the best interests of the game to proceed with that particular change at this time.

“The changes that are being implemented are intended to build on the success of the 2025 season by enhancing the entertainment value for fans, while also providing additional tactical options for coaches.

“The game is in a brilliant place. The players are producing incredible feats and the fans are responding. These changes will enhance the game further and continue to ensure this is the best and most watched sport in the country.”