R360 League Players Hit With Decade-Long Ban from Australia's Rugby League

The NRL's governing body has stated that participants who join the “counterfeit” R360 competition will be banned for 10 years.

R360, set to start in October 2026, is hoping to draw athletes from both codes with lucrative deals and a condensed game calendar.

Prominent rugby league stars have reportedly received offers by the breakaway group, which will involve six or eight men's clubs and four women's teams operating from key urban centers around the world.

The Samoan Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who represents his NRL club in the competition, has said he has had negotiations involving the new organization.

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

Eight major rugby union countries, such as Australia, last week announced a prohibition on R360 recruits participating in global fixtures.

“We've listened to our franchises and we've acted decisively,” stated ARLC head Peter V'Landys.

“Sadly, there will continually be entities that try to exploit our sport for potential financial gain.

“They don't invest in development systems or the growth of athletes. They simply exploit the hard work of others, jeopardizing careers of financial loss while benefiting financially.

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

The organization is launched by retired international Tindall and funded by commercial backers.

Following the potential union bans were revealed recently, it commented: “We want to work together as a component of the international rugby schedule.

“The event is structured with customized calendars for men's and women's teams and the organization will permit participants for global fixtures, as specified in their deals.”

The breakaway group will apply for endorsement for its plans from World Rugby, rugby union's governing body, at its official gathering next year.