R360 Competition Athletes Subject to 10-Season Exclusion from NRL

The NRL's administration has declared that athletes who sign with the “counterfeit” R360 will be banned for 10 years.

The new league, which plans to launch in October 2026, is hoping to draw players from union and league with hefty contracts and a reduced fixture list.

Leading NRL stars have reportedly been approached by the breakaway group, which will involve six or eight men's clubs and four women's teams based in major cities around the world.

Representing Samoa the player, who plays for New Zealand Warriors in the league, has confirmed he has had discussions with the breakaway league.

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

Several leading union teams, among them Australia, recently announced a restriction on athletes signing with R360 appearing in test matches.

“We heard our franchises and we've acted decisively,” stated ARLC chairman the official.

“Regrettably, there will always be organizations that try to exploit our sport for economic benefit.

“They don't invest in pathways or the advancement of players. They simply exploit the hard work of existing bodies, jeopardizing careers of economic hardship while benefiting financially.

“Essentially, they are, imitating the sport.”

The league is established by ex-England star Mike Tindall and funded by private investors.

Subsequent to the prospective union bans were declared recently, it said: “We aim to collaborate collaboratively as a component of the international rugby schedule.

“The competition is structured with tailored timetables for male and female sides and the organization will release all players for global fixtures, as written into their contracts.”

The new league will apply for endorsement for its initiatives from World Rugby, the sport's regulatory group, at its council meeting next year.