R360 League Recruits Face Decade-Long Suspension from National Rugby League

The NRL's authority has stated that players who enter the “counterfeit” R360 competition will be barred for a decade.

R360, which plans to launch in October 2026, is hoping to draw athletes from both codes with substantial agreements and a reduced playing schedule.

Leading National Rugby League players have allegedly been contacted by R360, which will include six or eight men's teams and four women's teams located in key urban centers globally.

Samoa's the rugby star, who plays for New Zealand Warriors in the NRL, has said he has had discussions with the new organization.

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

A group of union countries, among them Australia, last week announced a prohibition on players joining R360 participating in international matches.

“We've listened to our teams and we've responded strongly,” said Australian Rugby League Commission head the official.

“Unfortunately, there will always be groups that attempt to hijack our sport for monetary profit.

“They fail to contribute in talent pipelines or the development of talent. They only leverage the dedication of other organizations, jeopardizing careers of financial loss while profiting themselves.

“Essentially, they are, copying the game.”

R360 is established by retired international Tindall and funded by private investors.

After the possible rugby union bans were announced earlier, it commented: “We want to work together as integrated into the global rugby calendar.

“The event is structured with customized calendars for men's and women's teams and the organization will allow all athletes for global fixtures, as included in their deals.”

The new league will seek approval for its plans from World Rugby, the sport's governing body, at its council meeting next year.