R360 Competition Athletes Face Decade-Long Ban from National Rugby League

The NRL's administration has announced that participants who sign with the “counterfeit” R360 league will be banned for a decade.

R360, scheduled to begin in October 2026, is aiming to attract rugby union and rugby league players with substantial agreements and a reduced fixture list.

Leading National Rugby League stars have reportedly been approached by the breakaway group, which will involve six to eight men's sides and women's teams located in major cities around the world.

Representing Samoa the rugby star, who plays for the Warriors in the NRL, has said he has had discussions with the breakaway league.

Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Payne Haas and Jye Gray are also reported to be considering joining the rebel league.

Several leading rugby union nations, including Australia, last week imposed a prohibition on players joining R360 participating in test matches.

“We have consulted our clubs and we've responded strongly,” stated ARLC head Peter V'Landys.

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

“They don't invest in pathways or the development of players. They simply exploit the dedication of others, jeopardizing careers of economic hardship while gaining personally.

“In truth, they represent, counterfeiting a code.”

R360 is launched by former England World Cup winner Mike Tindall and backed by independent financiers.

Following the possible rugby union prohibitions were revealed last week, it said: “We seek to cooperate collaboratively as integrated into the international rugby schedule.

“The event is arranged with customized calendars for men's and women's teams and we will allow all athletes for international matches, as included in their deals.”

The new league will request authorization for its initiatives from World Rugby, the sport's regulatory group, at its board session next year.