R360 Athletes Subject to 10-Season Exclusion from National Rugby League

Australian rugby league's governing body has stated that players who enter the “counterfeit” R360 league will be banned for a decade.

The proposed competition, which plans to launch in 2026, is hoping to draw athletes from both codes with substantial agreements and a reduced fixture list.

Top NRL athletes have reportedly been approached by the breakaway group, which will feature six to eight men's teams and women's teams operating from major cities globally.

The Samoan the rugby star, who is with the Warriors in the NRL, has said he has had talks with R360.

Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Gray are also believed to be considering joining the rebel league.

Eight major union teams, including Australia, earlier imposed a ban on athletes signing with R360 appearing in global fixtures.

“We have consulted our teams and we've acted decisively,” commented Australian Rugby League Commission chief the official.

“Sadly, there will always be entities that attempt to hijack our code for monetary profit.

“They don't invest in development systems or the development of players. They simply exploit the dedication of existing bodies, endangering athletes of monetary damage while profiting themselves.

“Essentially, they are, copying the game.”

The league is co-founded by ex-England star Mike Tindall and backed by commercial backers.

After the possible rugby union bans were declared earlier, it stated: “We want to work collaboratively as a component of the international rugby schedule.

“The event is designed with bespoke schedules for men's and women's teams and we will release all players for global fixtures, as written into their deals.”

R360 will request authorization for its proposals from World Rugby, union's administrative organization, at its official gathering next year.