R360 Competition Players Hit With Decade-Long Ban from National Rugby League

Australian rugby league's authority has stated that players who enter the “breakaway” R360 will be prohibited for a decade.

The new league, set to start in 2026, is hoping to draw rugby union and rugby league players with substantial agreements and a reduced playing schedule.

Top NRL stars have reportedly received offers by R360, which will involve six or eight men's clubs and women's teams located in large metropolitan areas worldwide.

Representing Samoa the player, who plays for New Zealand Warriors in the league, has said he has had talks with R360.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Payne Haas and Gray are also said to be thinking about signing the rebel league.

A group of rugby union nations, such as Australia, last week declared a prohibition on athletes signing with R360 playing global fixtures.

“We have consulted our teams and we've taken firm action,” commented ARLC chairman Peter V'Landys.

“Sadly, there will persistently exist organizations that attempt to hijack our game for economic benefit.

“They fail to contribute in talent pipelines or the advancement of athletes. They merely capitalize on the hard work of others, endangering athletes of monetary damage while profiting themselves.

“Essentially, they are, imitating the sport.”

The league is established by ex-England star Tindall and supported by commercial backers.

After the potential rugby union bans were announced recently, it said: “We seek to cooperate together as part of the worldwide fixture list.

“The event is arranged with customized calendars for male and female sides and we will release all players for international matches, as written into their contracts.”

The new league will seek approval for its plans from rugby union's governing body, union's administrative organization, at its official gathering in the coming year.