‘Our little nations should be compensated fairly’: Spencer Leniu challenges rugby league

Toa Sāmoa player Spencer Leniu has taken to social media demanding fairer pay for players, following the global attention Tonga and Sāmoa generated during the Rugby League World Cup.

With both nations reaching the semi-finals, Leniu published an Instagram post highlighting the importance of fair compensation for their contribution to the game.

Part of the post reads: “There’s no secret that they’ve used our people to sell games. Look no further than Sāmoa vs Tonga. Arguably the most hyped up and anticipated game of the tournament.

“They make it a triple header because our people turn up in numbers, fill the stadiums and create an atmosphere with pride and passion.”

The social media post has generated more than 100,000 likes and gained support from fellow Tongan and Sāmoan players, reigniting questions around fair compensation for Pacific nations.

The discussion follows scrutiny of player payments, with RNZ Pacific reporting Australian players received a flat payment of NZ$49,000 each, while players representing Sāmoa, Tonga and other nations receive around NZ$1,000 per game.

Australia's payments are not funded through the Rugby League World Cup but through an agreement between the Australian federation and the players' association, determined during previous negotiations.

With the 2030 Rugby League World Cup set to be staged in the United States, Leniu believes the tournament's destination reflects the growth and influence Pacific communities have brought to the game.

Leniu’s post goes on to say with the next WC in the US, specifically to Utah and Hawaii where there is a big Polynesian community, shows the importance of our people in growing our game.

Spencer Leniu was sent off by referee Adam Gee for dissent during Toa Sāmoa’s 44-12 loss to Australia, resulting in a two-match suspension. Photo/Rugby League News/Facebook.

“So I believe if they are going to use that as a tool to generate money, our little nations should be compensated fairly for it.”

The 26-year-old's comments come as the International Rugby League (IRL) outlines plans for the next World Cup, including movingTonga and Sāmoa up a tier.

The decision was confirmed by IRL chairman Troy Grant during a media conference.

“The board voted unanimously to engage with Tonga and Sāmoa on elevating them from Tier 2 to Tier 1 status. I have been in contact with both nations to advise them of the Board’s decision.

“We will be working with them over the next couple of months to ensure there are no unintended consequences from that potential elevation to Tier one.”

Grant says the decision recognises the significant contributions both nations have made to the sport, on and off the field.

“This is out of respect and acknowledgement of their achievements on two fronts; obviously their performances on the field are without question the equivalent of current three Tier One nations.

“And secondly these two nations have taken gigantic leaps forward regarding their governance and what they are doing domestically.”

Grant says detailed discussions have begun with both nations to ensure there are no unintended consequences should they be promoted.