R360 Competition Recruits Subject to Decade-Long Exclusion from National Rugby League

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

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

Prominent NRL players have reportedly received offers by the breakaway group, which will include six or eight men's sides and four women's teams based in key urban centers worldwide.

Representing Samoa Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who plays for New Zealand Warriors in the league, has stated he has had discussions with the new organization.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Haas and Jye Gray are also believed to be weighing up offers from the new competition.

Eight major union nations, such as Australia, earlier declared a prohibition on R360 recruits playing international matches.

“We heard our franchises and we've acted decisively,” stated Australian Rugby League Commission head the official.

“Regrettably, there will continually be entities that attempt to hijack our game for potential financial gain.

“They fail to contribute in talent pipelines or the advancement of talent. They simply exploit the dedication of other organizations, endangering athletes of economic hardship while benefiting financially.

“Essentially, they are, copying the game.”

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

Subsequent to the possible union prohibitions were revealed last week, it commented: “We aim to collaborate collaboratively as a component of the global rugby calendar.

“The series is arranged with tailored timetables for both genders and R360 will allow all athletes for international matches, as specified in their contracts.”

The new league will request authorization for its initiatives from World Rugby, the sport's regulatory group, at its council meeting next year.