R360 Players Face Decade-Long Ban from National Rugby League

Australian rugby league's administration has stated that players who sign with the “breakaway” R360 competition will be banned for 10 years.

The new league, scheduled to begin in October 2026, is seeking to lure athletes from both codes with lucrative deals and a condensed playing schedule.

Leading rugby league athletes have reportedly been approached by the breakaway group, which will involve six or eight men's sides and women's teams located in major cities globally.

Representing Samoa the rugby star, who is with his NRL club in the NRL, has stated he has had discussions with the breakaway league.

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

Eight major rugby union countries, such as Australia, earlier announced a restriction on players joining R360 participating in global fixtures.

“We've listened to our teams and we've acted decisively,” stated ARLC chairman V'Landys.

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

“They avoid funding in development systems or the advancement of talent. They only leverage the efforts of other organizations, endangering athletes of monetary damage while profiting themselves.

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

The organization is co-founded by ex-England star Tindall and supported by private investors.

Following the possible union bans were announced last week, it commented: “We want to work in partnership as part of the worldwide fixture list.

“The competition is designed with customized calendars for men's and women's teams and the organization will permit participants for international matches, as specified in their agreements.”

R360 will apply for endorsement for its plans from World Rugby, rugby union's regulatory group, at its board session in the coming year.