R360 Competition Players Hit With Decade-Long Suspension from NRL

Rugby league's governing body has announced that participants who enter the “counterfeit” R360 will be barred for 10 seasons.

The new league, which plans to launch in October 2026, is aiming to attract players from union and league with hefty contracts and a slimmed-down game calendar.

Leading NRL players have allegedly been contacted by the breakaway group, which will include six or eight men's sides and four women's sides located in key urban centers globally.

Samoa's Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who represents New Zealand Warriors in the NRL, has stated he has had negotiations involving the breakaway league.

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

A group of rugby union nations, such as Australia, recently announced a ban on athletes signing with R360 appearing in global fixtures.

“We heard our teams and we've taken firm action,” commented Australian Rugby League Commission head Peter V'Landys.

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

“They don't invest in pathways or the growth of athletes. They only leverage the dedication of other organizations, endangering athletes of monetary damage while benefiting financially.

“Essentially, they are, counterfeiting a code.”

The league is launched by ex-England star Tindall and supported by private investors.

After the potential union prohibitions were revealed last week, it said: “We aim to collaborate in partnership as part of the global rugby calendar.

“The series is arranged with customized calendars for men's and women's teams and we will release all players for global fixtures, as written into their contracts.”

R360 will apply for endorsement for its plans from rugby union's governing body, rugby union's administrative organization, at its official gathering next year.