R360 Competition Players Hit With 10-Season Ban from National Rugby League

Australian rugby league's authority has stated that participants who join the “breakaway” R360 competition will be prohibited for a decade.

The proposed competition, which plans to launch in late 2026, is hoping to draw athletes from both codes with substantial agreements and a condensed game calendar.

Top NRL players have reportedly been approached by the new league, which will involve six or eight men's clubs and women's teams located in major cities worldwide.

The Samoan Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who represents New Zealand Warriors in the competition, has said he has had negotiations involving the new organization.

Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Haas and Jye Gray are also believed to be thinking about signing the rebel league.

Eight major union countries, among them Australia, last week announced a prohibition on R360 recruits participating in test matches.

“We have consulted our clubs and we've taken firm action,” said Australian Rugby League Commission chairman V'Landys.

“Sadly, there will continually be groups that attempt to hijack our sport for economic benefit.

“They avoid funding in pathways or the growth of talent. They simply exploit the hard work of other organizations, putting players at risk of economic hardship while benefiting financially.

“In truth, they represent, copying the game.”

The league is co-founded by retired international Tindall and backed by private investors.

Following the prospective union bans were declared last week, it commented: “We seek to cooperate collaboratively as integrated into the international rugby schedule.

“The series is structured with tailored timetables for men's and women's teams and we will permit participants for test matches, as included in their agreements.”

R360 will apply for endorsement for its plans from the international authority, the sport's administrative organization, at its council meeting next year.