R360 League Players Hit With Decade-Long Ban from Australia's Rugby League

The NRL's administration has stated that players who enter the “breakaway” R360 league will be prohibited for a decade.

R360, scheduled to begin in October 2026, is aiming to attract players from union and league with substantial agreements and a reduced game calendar.

Leading NRL players have allegedly been contacted by the breakaway group, which will involve six or eight men's clubs and four women's teams based in major cities worldwide.

The Samoan the rugby star, who is with his NRL club in the NRL, has confirmed he has had negotiations involving the new organization.

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

Eight major union teams, among them Australia, last week imposed a prohibition on R360 recruits participating in international matches.

“We've listened to our clubs and we've responded strongly,” said the league's chief the official.

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

“They don't invest in pathways or the growth of talent. They merely capitalize on the dedication of existing bodies, jeopardizing careers of financial loss while gaining personally.

“They are, in reality, copying the game.”

R360 is co-founded by retired international Tindall and supported by independent financiers.

Following the potential union sanctions were declared earlier, it commented: “We aim to collaborate together as a component of the international rugby schedule.

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

R360 will seek approval for its initiatives from the international authority, rugby union's governing body, at its official gathering in the coming year.