R360 Competition Athletes Subject to 10-Year Ban from NRL

The NRL's authority has stated that players who enter the “counterfeit” R360 will be barred for 10 years.

The new league, which plans to launch in late 2026, is hoping to draw rugby union and rugby league players with hefty contracts and a reduced playing schedule.

Top rugby league players have reportedly been approached by the new league, which will feature multiple men's clubs and four women's sides based in key urban centers worldwide.

Samoa's Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who represents the Warriors in the league, has said he has had talks with the breakaway league.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Haas and Gray are also said to be thinking about signing the new competition.

Several leading union countries, such as Australia, last week declared a prohibition on R360 recruits participating in global fixtures.

“We have consulted our teams and we've responded strongly,” commented the league's chief V'Landys.

“Unfortunately, there will persistently exist groups that attempt to hijack our code for economic benefit.

“They avoid funding in development systems or the growth of athletes. They simply exploit the efforts of existing bodies, jeopardizing careers of monetary damage while benefiting financially.

“They are, in reality, imitating the sport.”

The organization is established by ex-England star Mike Tindall and backed by independent financiers.

Following the possible union sanctions were revealed recently, it stated: “We aim to collaborate collaboratively as a component of the worldwide fixture list.

“The event is structured with bespoke schedules for both genders and the organization will permit participants for international matches, as written into their deals.”

The breakaway group will request authorization for its proposals from World Rugby, the sport's governing body, at its official gathering in 2026.