R360 League Players Subject to 10-Season Exclusion from National Rugby League

The NRL's administration has announced that players who sign with the “breakaway” R360 competition will be prohibited for a decade.

R360, which plans to launch in 2026, is hoping to draw athletes from both codes with lucrative deals and a condensed playing schedule.

Leading rugby league players have allegedly been contacted by the new league, which will include six to eight men's clubs and women's teams located in major cities worldwide.

Representing Samoa the player, who represents his NRL club in the league, has stated he has had discussions with the new organization.

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

Eight major union nations, including Australia, last week declared a prohibition on R360 recruits participating in global fixtures.

“We have consulted our teams and we've taken firm action,” commented ARLC head Peter V'Landys.

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

“They don't invest in talent pipelines or the growth of talent. They merely capitalize on the dedication of other organizations, endangering athletes of economic hardship while gaining personally.

“They are, in reality, imitating the sport.”

The league is launched by retired international Tindall and funded by commercial backers.

Following the possible rugby union sanctions were declared recently, it stated: “We want to work in partnership as integrated into the global rugby calendar.

“The series is designed with bespoke schedules for men's and women's teams and we will allow all athletes for global fixtures, as specified in their contracts.”

The new league will request authorization for its proposals from World Rugby, union's regulatory group, at its board session in the coming year.