R360 League Players Subject to 10-Season Exclusion from Australia's Rugby League

The NRL's authority has declared that athletes who sign with the “breakaway” R360 competition will be prohibited for 10 seasons.

The proposed competition, set to start in October 2026, is aiming to attract rugby union and rugby league players with substantial agreements and a condensed game calendar.

Top NRL athletes have reportedly received offers by the new league, which will include six or eight men's clubs and women's teams located in key urban centers around the world.

Samoa's the player, who plays for New Zealand Warriors in the NRL, has stated he has had discussions with R360.

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

Eight major union teams, among them Australia, earlier imposed a prohibition on R360 recruits participating in global fixtures.

“We heard our franchises and we've acted decisively,” said Australian Rugby League Commission chairman V'Landys.

“Regrettably, there will always be groups that seek to pirate our code for monetary profit.

“They avoid funding in development systems or the growth of talent. They simply exploit the dedication of existing bodies, putting players at risk of monetary damage while profiting themselves.

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

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

After the prospective rugby union bans were revealed earlier, it said: “We want to work together as part of the global rugby calendar.

“The event is designed with bespoke schedules for male and female sides and we will allow all athletes for test matches, as written into their contracts.”

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