ESPN CONFIRMED FEW MINUTES AGO: Canberra Raiders Prop Joseph Tapine Suspended from All NRL Activities Due to Significant Error Facing Club Review
In a breaking development that has sent shockwaves across the NRL, Canberra Raiders forward Joseph Tapine has been suspended from all National Rugby League activities, effective immediately, following what sources are calling a “significant administrative and conduct-related error.”
The news was confirmed just minutes ago by ESPN’s NRL insider Matt Reynolds, who reported that the decision came following an urgent internal review by the Raiders and preliminary findings shared with the NRL Integrity Unit.
“Tapine’s suspension is related to an ongoing matter involving a serious breach of internal protocols, which may also include mismanagement of team obligations during a recent representative break,” Reynolds said.
While the exact details of the breach have not yet been made public, club officials have described the issue as “non-criminal but highly disruptive,” suggesting it may involve a contractual or compliance-related oversight rather than any legal wrongdoing.
NRL spokesperson Dana Wallace released a brief statement Monday afternoon:
“The NRL is aware of the matter involving Joseph Tapine. He has been provisionally suspended from all league-sanctioned activities pending the outcome of a full investigation. No further comment will be made at this time.”
The Canberra Raiders are expected to hold a press conference within the next 24 hours. In the meantime, Tapine will not be permitted to train with the squad or participate in any Raiders events, including their pre-season development camps.
The New Zealand international has been a cornerstone of the Raiders forward pack and was expected to play a leadership role heading into the 2026 season. His sudden absence leaves a significant gap in the Raiders’ plans and adds yet another chapter to a tumultuous off-season for the club.
Fans and analysts alike have expressed concern, with some speculating that the situation may impact Tapine’s representative future with the Kiwis as well.
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