R360 League Athletes Face 10-Season Exclusion from National Rugby League

Rugby league's administration has stated that players who join the “counterfeit” R360 competition will be barred for 10 seasons.

The proposed competition, which plans to launch in late 2026, is hoping to draw rugby union and rugby league players with substantial agreements and a condensed playing schedule.

Leading NRL athletes have allegedly been contacted by the breakaway group, which will feature six to eight men's sides and four women's teams located in key urban centers worldwide.

Representing Samoa Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who is with New Zealand Warriors in the league, has confirmed he has had talks with the breakaway league.

Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Jye Gray are also said to be thinking about signing R360.

Eight major rugby union countries, including Australia, earlier declared a ban on R360 recruits participating in international matches.

“We have consulted our franchises and we've acted decisively,” said ARLC chief Peter V'Landys.

“Unfortunately, there will persistently exist organizations that try to exploit our sport for monetary profit.

“They avoid funding in talent pipelines or the advancement of athletes. They simply exploit the hard work of existing bodies, putting players at risk of monetary damage while benefiting financially.

“In truth, they represent, imitating the sport.”

R360 is established by retired international Mike Tindall and supported by private investors.

After the possible rugby union sanctions were revealed last week, it stated: “We aim to collaborate collaboratively as part of the global rugby calendar.

“The event is arranged with tailored timetables for male and female sides and R360 will permit participants for global fixtures, as specified in their deals.”

The new league will seek approval for its proposals from World Rugby, union's administrative organization, at its board session in the coming year.