R360 League Players Face Decade-Long Exclusion from NRL

Australian rugby league's governing body has stated that athletes who enter the “counterfeit” R360 competition will be banned for 10 years.

The proposed competition, scheduled to begin in 2026, is hoping to draw players from union and league with substantial agreements and a slimmed-down fixture list.

Leading National Rugby League athletes have reportedly received offers by R360, which will include multiple men's clubs and four women's teams based in key urban centers worldwide.

Samoa's the player, who plays for New Zealand Warriors in the league, has confirmed he has had discussions with the breakaway league.

Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Haas and Gray are also believed to be considering joining the rebel league.

Eight major rugby union teams, including Australia, recently declared a prohibition on athletes signing with R360 participating in global fixtures.

“We have consulted our clubs and we've acted decisively,” said ARLC chief the official.

“Unfortunately, there will always be organizations that attempt to hijack our sport for economic benefit.

“They avoid funding in development systems or the growth of athletes. They merely capitalize on the dedication of existing bodies, endangering athletes of monetary damage while profiting themselves.

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

The organization is established by ex-England star Mike Tindall and backed by commercial backers.

Following the prospective rugby union sanctions were declared earlier, it said: “We aim to collaborate collaboratively as a component of the international rugby schedule.

“The series is structured with tailored timetables for male and female sides and we will allow all athletes for test matches, as written into their agreements.”

The breakaway group will request authorization for its proposals from rugby union's governing body, union's administrative organization, at its official gathering in 2026.