R360 Competition Players Hit With 10-Year Ban from Australia's Rugby League

The NRL's governing body has announced that participants who sign with the “counterfeit” R360 league will be barred for 10 seasons.

The new league, scheduled to begin in October 2026, is hoping to draw athletes from both codes with substantial agreements and a slimmed-down playing schedule.

Prominent National Rugby League athletes have reportedly received offers by the breakaway group, which will involve six or eight men's clubs and women's teams operating from large metropolitan areas globally.

Representing Samoa Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who represents the Warriors in the competition, has said he has had discussions with R360.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Payne Haas and Gray are also reported to be considering joining R360.

Several leading union countries, such as Australia, recently imposed a restriction on R360 recruits appearing in global fixtures.

“We heard our franchises and we've taken firm action,” said ARLC chairman the official.

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

“They avoid funding in development systems or the growth of athletes. They merely capitalize on the efforts of other organizations, putting players at risk of economic hardship while benefiting financially.

“Essentially, they are, copying the game.”

R360 is established by ex-England star Tindall and supported by independent financiers.

Subsequent to the potential rugby union prohibitions were revealed recently, it commented: “We aim to collaborate collaboratively as integrated into the international rugby schedule.

“The series is arranged with customized calendars for men's and women's teams and the organization will allow all athletes for global fixtures, as written into their contracts.”

The breakaway group will apply for endorsement for its plans from the international authority, the sport's administrative organization, at its council meeting in 2026.