R360 Players Subject to 10-Season Ban from NRL

The NRL's governing body has declared that athletes who join the “breakaway” R360 league will be prohibited for 10 years.

The proposed competition, set to start in October 2026, is hoping to draw players from union and league with hefty contracts and a reduced game calendar.

Top rugby league athletes have allegedly been contacted by R360, which will include six or eight men's sides and four women's sides operating from large metropolitan areas around the world.

The Samoan the rugby star, who plays for his NRL club in the league, has stated he has had discussions with R360.

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

Several leading union countries, such as Australia, earlier announced a restriction on R360 recruits participating in test matches.

“We heard our clubs and we've acted decisively,” stated Australian Rugby League Commission chief Peter V'Landys.

“Unfortunately, there will always be groups that attempt to hijack our game for potential financial gain.

“They fail to contribute in pathways or the growth of players. They simply exploit the efforts of others, putting players at risk of economic hardship while gaining personally.

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

R360 is launched by retired international Mike Tindall and supported by private investors.

After the potential union prohibitions were announced earlier, it said: “We aim to collaborate together as part of the global rugby calendar.

“The competition is structured with customized calendars for male and female sides and the organization will allow all athletes for international matches, as written into their agreements.”

R360 will seek approval for its plans from World Rugby, union's administrative organization, at its council meeting in the coming year.