R360 Athletes Face 10-Season Exclusion from Australia's Rugby League

The NRL's authority has declared that players who join the “counterfeit” R360 league will be banned for 10 seasons.

The new league, which plans to launch in 2026, is hoping to draw athletes from both codes with lucrative deals and a reduced fixture list.

Top rugby league athletes have allegedly been contacted by the breakaway group, which will include six to eight men's teams and four women's sides located in large metropolitan areas worldwide.

Samoa's the player, who is with the Warriors in the NRL, has said he has had negotiations involving R360.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Payne Haas and Jye Gray are also said to be considering joining R360.

Eight major union teams, including Australia, last week declared a ban on players joining R360 appearing in test matches.

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

“Sadly, there will persistently exist entities that try to exploit our game for economic benefit.

“They fail to contribute in pathways or the growth of players. They simply exploit the dedication of others, endangering athletes of economic hardship while profiting themselves.

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

The organization is established by former England World Cup winner Mike Tindall and supported by private investors.

Subsequent to the prospective rugby union sanctions were revealed last week, it stated: “We aim to collaborate in partnership as part of the international rugby schedule.

“The competition 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 agreements.”

R360 will seek approval for its plans from rugby union's governing body, rugby union's governing body, at its council meeting in 2026.