R360 League Recruits Subject to Decade-Long Ban from NRL

The NRL's administration has announced that participants who sign with the “breakaway” R360 league will be prohibited for 10 years.

The new league, set to start in 2026, is aiming to attract rugby union and rugby league players with lucrative deals and a reduced playing schedule.

Prominent National Rugby League players have reportedly received offers by the new league, which will involve six or eight men's sides and four women's teams based in large metropolitan areas around the world.

Samoa's the player, who represents the Warriors in the NRL, has confirmed he has had talks with the new organization.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Haas and Jye Gray are also reported to be thinking about signing the rebel league.

A group of union nations, among them Australia, recently declared a restriction on players joining R360 playing international matches.

“We have consulted our teams and we've taken firm action,” said ARLC chief V'Landys.

“Sadly, there will always be organizations that seek to pirate our game for potential financial gain.

“They fail to contribute in pathways or the development of athletes. They simply exploit the dedication of existing bodies, endangering athletes of monetary damage while benefiting financially.

“They are, in reality, counterfeiting a code.”

The league is launched by ex-England star Mike Tindall and supported by independent financiers.

Following the prospective rugby union sanctions were revealed recently, it said: “We aim to collaborate collaboratively as part of the worldwide fixture list.

“The event is structured with tailored timetables for both genders and we will allow all athletes for global fixtures, as included in their agreements.”

R360 will apply for endorsement for its initiatives from rugby union's governing body, rugby union's regulatory group, at its official gathering next year.