R360 Competition Recruits Subject to Decade-Long Exclusion from NRL

Rugby league's governing body has stated that participants who enter the “rebel” R360 league will be prohibited for 10 seasons.

R360, scheduled to begin in October 2026, is seeking to lure athletes from both codes with substantial agreements and a slimmed-down fixture list.

Top National Rugby League stars have reportedly been approached by the new league, which will involve six or eight men's teams and four women's sides based in major cities globally.

Samoa's the player, who represents New Zealand Warriors in the competition, has stated he has had talks with the new organization.

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

Eight major rugby union nations, including Australia, earlier declared a prohibition on athletes signing with R360 appearing in global fixtures.

“We've listened to our teams and we've acted decisively,” stated the league's head Peter V'Landys.

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

“They don't invest in development systems or the advancement of athletes. They merely capitalize on the efforts of other organizations, jeopardizing careers of monetary damage while benefiting financially.

“Essentially, they are, imitating the sport.”

R360 is co-founded by retired international Mike Tindall and funded by private investors.

Subsequent to the potential rugby union sanctions were revealed recently, it commented: “We aim to collaborate in partnership as part of the global rugby calendar.

“The event is arranged with bespoke schedules for male and female sides and we will permit participants for test matches, as written into their contracts.”

The breakaway group will apply for endorsement for its proposals from World Rugby, rugby union's regulatory group, at its council meeting in the coming year.