R360 Athletes Subject to 10-Year Ban from Australia's Rugby League

The NRL's governing body has announced that players who sign with the “counterfeit” R360 competition will be barred for a decade.

The proposed competition, set to start in late 2026, is seeking to lure rugby union and rugby league players with hefty contracts and a slimmed-down playing schedule.

Prominent NRL stars have reportedly received offers by the breakaway group, which will feature multiple men's sides and women's teams based in major cities globally.

The Samoan the player, who represents his NRL club in the league, has confirmed he has had discussions with the new organization.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Gray are also reported to be considering joining R360.

A group of union countries, including Australia, recently declared a prohibition on athletes signing with R360 playing test matches.

“We've listened to our teams and we've taken firm action,” stated Australian Rugby League Commission chief V'Landys.

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

“They fail to contribute in development systems or the development of players. They merely capitalize on the hard work of others, jeopardizing careers of monetary damage while profiting themselves.

“They are, in reality, counterfeiting a code.”

R360 is launched by former England World Cup winner Tindall and supported by private investors.

After the possible rugby union bans were declared earlier, it stated: “We aim to collaborate in partnership as integrated into the global rugby calendar.

“The competition is arranged with bespoke schedules for both genders and R360 will permit participants for test matches, as specified in their agreements.”

The new league will seek approval for its proposals from the international authority, rugby union's administrative organization, at its official gathering next year.