R360 League Players Hit With Decade-Long Exclusion from NRL

Australian rugby league's administration has stated that athletes who sign with the “counterfeit” R360 competition will be barred for 10 years.

The proposed competition, set to start in late 2026, is aiming to attract players from union and league with substantial agreements and a reduced fixture list.

Top rugby league players have reportedly been approached by R360, which will include six to eight men's sides and women's teams located in large metropolitan areas worldwide.

The Samoan the rugby star, who is with the Warriors in the competition, has confirmed he has had talks with the breakaway league.

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

Eight major union teams, among them Australia, earlier imposed a prohibition on players joining R360 playing international matches.

“We heard our clubs and we've taken firm action,” stated ARLC head the official.

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

“They don't invest in development systems or the development of athletes. They only leverage the dedication of existing bodies, endangering athletes of monetary damage while gaining personally.

“Essentially, they are, copying the game.”

The league is established by ex-England star Tindall and funded by commercial backers.

Subsequent to the prospective union sanctions were declared last week, it said: “We aim to collaborate in partnership as integrated into the worldwide fixture list.

“The competition is structured with bespoke schedules for men's and women's teams and the organization will permit participants for global fixtures, as specified in their contracts.”

R360 will apply for endorsement for its proposals from World Rugby, rugby union's governing body, at its council meeting in the coming year.