R360 Players Face Decade-Long Suspension from Australia's Rugby League

The NRL's authority has announced that athletes who sign with the “counterfeit” R360 competition will be prohibited for a decade.

R360, scheduled to begin in late 2026, is seeking to lure athletes from both codes with hefty contracts and a condensed playing schedule.

Prominent NRL athletes have allegedly been contacted by the new league, which will feature six to eight men's clubs and women's teams operating from large metropolitan areas around the world.

Samoa's the player, who represents his NRL club in the competition, has stated he has had talks with the breakaway league.

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

A group of union countries, including Australia, last week imposed a prohibition on R360 recruits appearing in test matches.

“We've listened to our clubs and we've taken firm action,” commented Australian Rugby League Commission chief V'Landys.

“Regrettably, there will always be groups that attempt to hijack our game for economic benefit.

“They fail to contribute in development systems or the advancement of players. They merely capitalize on the efforts of existing bodies, putting players at risk of financial loss while benefiting financially.

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

The organization is launched by retired international Mike Tindall and funded by commercial backers.

Following the possible union bans were announced recently, it stated: “We want to work in partnership as a component of the international rugby schedule.

“The competition is arranged with bespoke schedules for both genders and the organization will permit participants for global fixtures, as included in their agreements.”

The new league will apply for endorsement for its plans from the international authority, rugby union's regulatory group, at its board session in 2026.