R360 League Players Hit With 10-Season Exclusion from NRL

Rugby league's governing body has stated that players who join the “rebel” R360 competition will be banned for 10 years.

The new league, set to start in late 2026, is hoping to draw rugby union and rugby league players with substantial agreements and a reduced playing schedule.

Prominent NRL players have reportedly received offers by R360, which will include six or eight men's sides and four women's sides located in large metropolitan areas around the world.

The Samoan Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who plays for his NRL club in the NRL, has said he has had discussions with R360.

Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Haas and Gray are also believed to be thinking about signing the new competition.

A group of rugby union countries, including Australia, recently declared a restriction on players joining R360 playing international matches.

“We have consulted our clubs and we've responded strongly,” commented ARLC head V'Landys.

“Regrettably, there will persistently exist organizations that attempt to hijack our sport for potential financial gain.

“They avoid funding in talent pipelines or the growth of players. They simply exploit the hard work of existing bodies, putting players at risk of financial loss while profiting themselves.

“They are, in reality, imitating the sport.”

The organization is co-founded by retired international Tindall and backed by independent financiers.

Following the possible rugby union prohibitions were revealed earlier, it stated: “We want to work together as part of the global rugby calendar.

“The series is structured with bespoke schedules for male and female sides and the organization will allow all athletes for global fixtures, as specified in their agreements.”

The breakaway group will seek approval for its plans from World Rugby, union's administrative organization, at its council meeting in the coming year.