The NRL Integrity Unit has launched a formal investigation into Wests Tigers CEO Shane Richardson, triggered by serious allegations from a whistleblower.
Tip-Off Sparks NRL Probe
According to a report in The Sydney Morning Herald on December 5, 2025, the league's integrity body has begun interviewing parties after receiving tip-offs that raised significant concerns about Richardson's conduct and that of other senior club staff.
The probe adds another layer of turmoil to the embattled Tigers club, coming as Richardson prepares to exit. His departure follows the Holman Barnes Group's (HBG) decision on Monday to sack four independent directors, including chairman Barry O'Farrell.
Allegations Centre on Finances and Family Ties
The whistleblower's allegations are reportedly focused on the club's financial dealings under Richardson's leadership. A key concern involves invoices paid to the Enrichd Group, a marketing, branding, and digital consultancy company partly owned by Richardson and his son, Brent.
While Richardson had previously disclosed this potential conflict of interest to the board, the whistleblower raised specific issues about the amount of money being directed to the family-linked firm for its services.
Further allegations claim the Tigers have also employed up to two other members of Richardson's family. In a significant escalation, it is reported that Richardson identified a former staff member as the whistleblower and used club funds to send them a legal threat. That former employee then sought legal advice and representation from ex-Wests Tigers chairman Lee Hagipantelis.
Fallout and Financial Implications
The Holman Barnes Group, the club's owner, is aware of the NRL's investigation and is conducting its own parallel inquiry. This internal probe could have direct consequences for Richardson's exit package, potentially impacting his seven-figure termination pay-out.
HBG deputy chairman Francesco Primerano stated, "The Holman Barnes Group is aware of the NRL’s interest in this matter and at this point in time we can not comment." Both Richardson and Hagipantelis declined to comment when approached by The Herald.
The situation leaves the Wests Tigers grappling with a major integrity investigation at the highest level of its management, casting a shadow over the club's operations during a period of already significant boardroom upheaval.
