R360 Competition Recruits Subject to Decade-Long Suspension from NRL

Australian rugby league's governing body has stated that participants who enter the “rebel” R360 league will be barred for a decade.

The new league, set to start in October 2026, is hoping to draw players from union and league with substantial agreements and a reduced playing schedule.

Top National Rugby League athletes have reportedly been approached by the breakaway group, which will feature six to eight men's clubs and four women's teams operating from major cities globally.

Samoa's the player, who plays for his NRL club in the competition, has said he has had discussions with R360.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Haas and Jye Gray are also said to be considering joining the new competition.

Several leading union countries, among them Australia, earlier announced a prohibition on R360 recruits playing international matches.

“We've listened to our teams and we've taken firm action,” said ARLC head Peter V'Landys.

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

“They fail to contribute in pathways or the development of players. They simply exploit the hard work of other organizations, jeopardizing careers of monetary damage while profiting themselves.

“Essentially, they are, counterfeiting a code.”

The organization is established by ex-England star Tindall and funded by private investors.

After the possible rugby union prohibitions were announced earlier, it said: “We aim to collaborate collaboratively as a component of the international rugby schedule.

“The competition is structured with bespoke schedules for men's and women's teams and the organization will allow all athletes for global fixtures, as specified in their contracts.”

The new league will apply for endorsement for its proposals from World Rugby, union's regulatory group, at its official gathering in 2026.