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

The NRL's authority has declared that players who enter the “counterfeit” R360 competition will be banned for 10 seasons.

The new league, scheduled to begin in 2026, is seeking to lure players from union and league with substantial agreements and a reduced playing schedule.

Prominent NRL players have allegedly been contacted by R360, which will involve six to eight men's clubs and women's teams operating from large metropolitan areas worldwide.

Samoa's the player, who plays for his NRL club in the competition, has stated he has had discussions with the new organization.

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

Several leading union teams, including Australia, last week announced a prohibition on R360 recruits appearing in international matches.

“We've listened to our clubs and we've responded strongly,” stated the league's chief V'Landys.

“Unfortunately, there will continually be entities that seek to pirate our code for potential financial gain.

“They don't invest in development systems or the development of talent. They simply exploit the hard work of existing bodies, jeopardizing careers of monetary damage while benefiting financially.

“In truth, they represent, imitating the sport.”

R360 is established by former England World Cup winner Tindall and funded by commercial backers.

Following the prospective union prohibitions were revealed recently, it commented: “We seek to cooperate collaboratively as integrated into the global rugby calendar.

“The series is designed with tailored timetables for men's and women's teams and we will allow all athletes for test matches, as specified in their contracts.”

The new league will seek approval for its proposals from World Rugby, rugby union's governing body, at its official gathering in the coming year.