R360 Players Hit With Decade-Long Exclusion from NRL

Rugby league's governing body has stated that players who join the “rebel” R360 competition will be banned for 10 years.

The new league, which plans to launch in late 2026, is aiming to attract rugby union and rugby league players with substantial agreements and a reduced game calendar.

Prominent National Rugby League players have reportedly received offers by the breakaway group, which will involve six or eight men's sides and four women's teams operating from key urban centers around the world.

Representing Samoa the rugby star, who represents his NRL club in the NRL, has stated he has had negotiations involving R360.

Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Payne Haas and Jye Gray are also said to be considering joining R360.

A group of union nations, including Australia, recently announced a prohibition on players joining R360 appearing in global fixtures.

“We've listened to our franchises and we've responded strongly,” stated ARLC chairman Peter V'Landys.

“Sadly, there will persistently exist entities that seek to pirate our game for economic benefit.

“They fail to contribute in talent pipelines or the growth of athletes. They merely capitalize on the dedication of existing bodies, endangering athletes of monetary damage while benefiting financially.

“Essentially, they are, counterfeiting a code.”

The league is established by former England World Cup winner Tindall and funded by commercial backers.

Following the possible rugby union bans were revealed earlier, it stated: “We want to work together as a component of the worldwide fixture list.

“The competition is structured with customized calendars for both genders and R360 will allow all athletes for test matches, as specified in their agreements.”

The new league will seek approval for its initiatives from the international authority, the sport's governing body, at its official gathering in the coming year.