R360 Players Subject to 10-Season Ban from National Rugby League

Australian rugby league's authority has stated that athletes who sign with the “counterfeit” R360 competition will be banned for 10 years.

R360, scheduled to begin in late 2026, is aiming to attract rugby union and rugby league players with substantial agreements and a slimmed-down playing schedule.

Prominent National Rugby League players have allegedly been contacted by the new league, which will feature multiple men's teams and women's teams based in key urban centers globally.

Representing Samoa the player, who represents the Warriors in the league, has said he has had negotiations involving the new organization.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Haas and Jye Gray are also reported to be weighing up offers from the rebel league.

Eight major union nations, including Australia, earlier declared a restriction on players joining R360 participating in international matches.

“We've listened to our clubs and we've responded strongly,” said the league's head V'Landys.

“Sadly, there will persistently exist entities that seek to pirate our sport for monetary profit.

“They avoid funding in pathways or the advancement of players. They simply exploit the dedication of other organizations, putting players at risk of monetary damage while gaining personally.

“Essentially, they are, imitating the sport.”

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

Subsequent to the prospective union prohibitions were revealed recently, it stated: “We want to work together as part of the global rugby calendar.

“The competition is designed with customized calendars for both genders and we will allow all athletes for global fixtures, as written into their deals.”

The new league will apply for endorsement for its initiatives from World Rugby, the sport's administrative organization, at its council meeting in the coming year.