R360 Competition Recruits Face Decade-Long Exclusion from National Rugby League

The NRL's authority has stated that players who sign with the “counterfeit” R360 league will be banned for 10 years.

The new league, which plans to launch in late 2026, is seeking to lure athletes from both codes with substantial agreements and a slimmed-down playing schedule.

Leading rugby league athletes have allegedly been contacted by the breakaway group, which will include multiple men's sides and women's teams based in key urban centers around the world.

Representing Samoa Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who represents New Zealand Warriors in the league, has stated he has had talks with R360.

Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Payne Haas and Jye Gray are also said to be thinking about signing R360.

Several leading rugby union teams, including Australia, last week imposed a ban on R360 recruits playing international matches.

“We heard our teams and we've taken firm action,” commented Australian Rugby League Commission head the official.

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

“They fail to contribute in development systems or the growth of players. They merely capitalize on the hard work of other organizations, jeopardizing careers of financial loss while gaining personally.

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

R360 is co-founded by ex-England star Tindall and funded by private investors.

After the potential union sanctions were revealed recently, it commented: “We seek to cooperate collaboratively as integrated into the global rugby calendar.

“The event is structured with customized calendars for men's and women's teams and R360 will allow all athletes for international matches, as written into their deals.”

The breakaway group will apply for endorsement for its initiatives from the international authority, the sport's governing body, at its board session in the coming year.