Former Brisbane Broncos and Wallabies rugby star Wendell Sailor has been taken into police custody following an incident in New South Wales. The 51-year-old was arrested in Wollongong after allegedly obstructing traffic while intoxicated.
Details of the Late-Night Arrest
New South Wales Police responded to reports of a man obstructing traffic on Throsby Drive in Narellan Vale at approximately 11pm on Friday night. Upon arrival, officers identified the individual as Wendell Sailor. A police spokeswoman stated that checks revealed the former sportsman was allegedly breaching his bail conditions at the time.
Sailor was subsequently arrested and transported to Wollongong Police Station. He was formally charged with breach of bail, obstructing traffic, and resisting arrest. Authorities confirmed there were no injuries reported to either Sailor or the officers involved.
Connection to Previous Assault Allegations
The breach of bail charge is linked to an earlier incident at a Sydney venue. Sailor has pleaded not guilty to allegations he assaulted two men outside a Sydney pub in November of last year. Police claim he refused to leave the licensed premises and became involved in an altercation where one man was allegedly intimidated.
For that previous matter, Sailor faces charges including two counts of common assault, offensive behaviour, intimidation, and refusing to leave licensed premises. A hearing for that case is scheduled for February 2026 and is expected to involve 21 witnesses, with CCTV and police body-cam footage to be presented in court.
Rugby League and Union Career Legacy
Wendell Sailor was one of the NRL's most formidable wingers during the 1990s and early 2000s. He starred for the Brisbane Broncos, winning premierships in 1993, 1997, and 1998. He also represented Australia in 17 rugby league Tests and was a key player for Queensland in State of Origin.
In 2001, he switched codes to rugby union, earning 37 caps for the Wallabies and competing in the Bledisloe Cup and Tri-Nations. He returned to the NRL in 2008 with the St George Illawarra Dragons, playing two final seasons before retiring.
Following his latest arrest, Sailor was refused bail and was set to appear before Bail Court 3 on Saturday, 6 December 2025.
