R360 Athletes Face 10-Year Ban from NRL

Australian rugby league's governing body has stated that players who enter the “rebel” R360 league will be prohibited for 10 seasons.

The proposed competition, set to start in October 2026, is aiming to attract players from union and league with substantial agreements and a condensed playing schedule.

Prominent NRL athletes have reportedly received offers by the new league, which will include multiple men's sides and four women's teams based in major cities worldwide.

The Samoan the rugby star, who plays for his NRL club in the league, has said he has had negotiations involving the new organization.

Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Haas and Jye Gray are also reported to be considering joining R360.

Several leading rugby union countries, including Australia, earlier announced a restriction on R360 recruits playing test matches.

“We heard our teams and we've taken firm action,” commented ARLC chief the official.

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

“They avoid funding in development systems or the growth of talent. They simply exploit the dedication of existing bodies, jeopardizing careers of financial loss while gaining personally.

“In truth, they represent, copying the game.”

The organization is launched by former England World Cup winner Tindall and funded by commercial backers.

Following the prospective rugby union prohibitions were revealed earlier, it said: “We want to work collaboratively as part of the international rugby schedule.

“The competition is designed with customized calendars for men's and women's teams and R360 will allow all athletes for global fixtures, as written into their agreements.”

The new league will apply for endorsement for its proposals from rugby union's governing body, union's administrative organization, at its official gathering in the coming year.