R360 League Players Subject to 10-Year Exclusion from NRL

Australian rugby league's administration has announced that athletes who sign with the “counterfeit” R360 league will be banned for 10 seasons.

The new league, which plans to launch in 2026, is aiming to attract rugby union and rugby league players with lucrative deals and a reduced fixture list.

Top rugby league players have reportedly been approached by the new league, which will involve six to eight men's clubs and four women's teams based in large metropolitan areas worldwide.

Samoa's the player, who represents his NRL club in the competition, has stated he has had discussions with the new organization.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Haas and Gray are also believed to be weighing up offers from R360.

Eight major rugby union teams, such as Australia, last week declared a prohibition on athletes signing with R360 appearing in global fixtures.

“We heard our clubs and we've taken firm action,” said Australian Rugby League Commission head the official.

“Unfortunately, there will continually be groups that attempt to hijack our code for monetary profit.

“They don't invest in pathways or the development of athletes. They only leverage the efforts of others, endangering athletes of economic hardship while benefiting financially.

“They are, in reality, copying the game.”

The organization is co-founded by retired international Mike Tindall and backed by independent financiers.

Following the possible union prohibitions were declared recently, it said: “We aim to collaborate collaboratively as part of the international rugby schedule.

“The event is structured with customized calendars for men's and women's teams and the organization will allow all athletes for international matches, as specified in their agreements.”

The breakaway group will apply for endorsement for its proposals from rugby union's governing body, union's administrative organization, at its board session next year.