R360 Athletes Face 10-Season Ban from NRL

Rugby league's governing body has declared that participants who enter the “breakaway” R360 league will be prohibited for 10 years.

The proposed competition, set to start in late 2026, is seeking to lure athletes from both codes with lucrative deals and a slimmed-down game calendar.

Prominent NRL stars have reportedly been approached by the new league, which will include six to eight men's sides and four women's sides located in large metropolitan areas globally.

Representing Samoa the player, who represents the Warriors in the league, has stated he has had negotiations involving the new organization.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Haas and Gray are also reported to be weighing up offers from the new competition.

Several leading rugby union teams, among them Australia, last week declared a restriction on players joining R360 participating in global fixtures.

“We have consulted our franchises and we've taken firm action,” commented Australian Rugby League Commission head the official.

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

“They don't invest in pathways or the development of athletes. They simply exploit the hard work of other organizations, jeopardizing careers of economic hardship while profiting themselves.

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

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

After the possible rugby union bans were revealed earlier, it said: “We seek to cooperate collaboratively as part of the international rugby schedule.

“The series is designed with customized calendars for men's and women's teams and R360 will allow all athletes for test matches, as included in their deals.”

The breakaway group will apply for endorsement for its proposals from rugby union's governing body, union's administrative organization, at its council meeting in the coming year.