R360 League Recruits Subject to 10-Season Ban from National Rugby League

The NRL's governing body has stated that athletes who sign with the “counterfeit” R360 will be barred for 10 seasons.

R360, which plans to launch in 2026, is hoping to draw rugby union and rugby league players with hefty contracts and a condensed fixture list.

Leading NRL athletes have reportedly received offers by R360, which will involve multiple men's teams and women's teams based in large metropolitan areas globally.

The Samoan the rugby star, who plays for his NRL club in the competition, has said he has had discussions with the breakaway league.

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

Eight major union nations, such as Australia, last week imposed a prohibition on athletes signing with R360 participating in global fixtures.

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

“Unfortunately, there will always be organizations that try to exploit our sport for potential financial gain.

“They avoid funding in pathways or the advancement of players. They only leverage the efforts of other organizations, putting players at risk of financial loss while gaining personally.

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

The organization is launched by retired international Mike Tindall and supported by private investors.

Subsequent to the potential union prohibitions were announced last week, it commented: “We aim to collaborate in partnership as part of the global rugby calendar.

“The series is designed with tailored timetables for men's and women's teams and the organization will permit participants for test matches, as specified in their agreements.”

R360 will request authorization for its plans from World Rugby, union's administrative organization, at its council meeting next year.