R360 Competition Players Hit With 10-Season Ban from NRL

Rugby league's administration has announced that participants who enter the “breakaway” R360 will be banned for 10 years.

R360, scheduled to begin in late 2026, is aiming to attract rugby union and rugby league players with substantial agreements and a reduced playing schedule.

Prominent National Rugby League players have reportedly been approached by the new league, which will include six or eight men's sides and women's teams located in large metropolitan areas worldwide.

Samoa's the rugby star, who represents New Zealand Warriors in the league, has confirmed he has had discussions with R360.

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

A group of union nations, including Australia, last week declared a prohibition on athletes signing with R360 appearing in international matches.

“We've listened to our teams and we've acted decisively,” commented the league's chief Peter V'Landys.

“Unfortunately, there will always be organizations that attempt to hijack our code for economic benefit.

“They don't invest in talent pipelines or the development of talent. They only leverage the efforts of existing bodies, endangering athletes of economic hardship while profiting themselves.

“In truth, they represent, counterfeiting a code.”

R360 is established by retired international Mike Tindall and supported by independent financiers.

Following the possible rugby union sanctions were declared earlier, it commented: “We seek to cooperate collaboratively as part of the worldwide fixture list.

“The competition is structured with customized calendars for male and female sides and R360 will permit participants for test matches, as included in their agreements.”

R360 will request authorization for its initiatives from World Rugby, union's regulatory group, at its board session in 2026.