R360 Athletes Hit With 10-Year Ban from NRL

Australian rugby league's governing body has announced that participants who join the “rebel” R360 competition will be prohibited for 10 seasons.

The proposed competition, scheduled to begin in late 2026, is aiming to attract rugby union and rugby league players with substantial agreements and a condensed game calendar.

Leading NRL players have reportedly received offers by the breakaway group, which will feature six or eight men's clubs and four women's sides operating from key urban centers worldwide.

Representing Samoa Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who plays for the Warriors in the league, has said he has had discussions with the breakaway league.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Gray are also believed to be weighing up offers from the rebel league.

Eight major rugby union countries, including Australia, recently announced a ban on athletes signing with R360 appearing in test matches.

“We have consulted our franchises and we've taken firm action,” said the league's head the official.

“Regrettably, there will persistently exist entities that seek to pirate our code for monetary profit.

“They don't invest in pathways or the development of players. They merely capitalize on the efforts of others, jeopardizing careers of monetary damage while gaining personally.

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

The organization is established by ex-England star Mike Tindall and supported by private investors.

Following the possible rugby union bans were announced recently, it stated: “We want to work in partnership as a component of the international rugby schedule.

“The series is arranged with bespoke schedules for male and female sides and the organization will allow all athletes for global fixtures, as written into their deals.”

The new league will request authorization for its proposals from World Rugby, rugby union's regulatory group, at its board session next year.