R360 Players Face Decade-Long Exclusion from National Rugby League

Rugby league's governing body has declared that athletes who join the “counterfeit” R360 will be banned for a decade.

The proposed competition, scheduled to begin in October 2026, is seeking to lure players from union and league with substantial agreements and a reduced fixture list.

Prominent NRL athletes have reportedly been approached by R360, which will feature six to eight men's clubs and four women's teams located in major cities worldwide.

Representing Samoa the rugby star, who represents New Zealand Warriors in the league, has confirmed he has had talks with R360.

Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Haas and Gray are also believed to be considering joining the new competition.

Several leading rugby union nations, among them Australia, earlier announced a ban on players joining R360 playing international matches.

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

“Unfortunately, there will persistently exist groups that seek to pirate our code for potential financial gain.

“They don't invest in talent pipelines or the advancement of players. They simply exploit the hard work of others, jeopardizing careers of monetary damage while gaining personally.

“Essentially, they are, copying the game.”

The league is co-founded by former England World Cup winner Tindall and supported by commercial backers.

Following the potential union bans were announced recently, it said: “We want to work together as part of the worldwide fixture list.

“The competition is arranged with bespoke schedules for male and female sides and R360 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, rugby union's regulatory group, at its official gathering in the coming year.