R360 Competition Recruits Face 10-Season Ban from NRL

Rugby league's authority has stated that players who join the “breakaway” R360 competition will be prohibited for 10 seasons.

The new league, set to start in late 2026, is aiming to attract athletes from both codes with substantial agreements and a reduced game calendar.

Top NRL players have allegedly been contacted by R360, which will involve multiple men's teams and four women's teams based in major cities worldwide.

Representing Samoa Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who is with his NRL club in the league, has confirmed he has had talks with the new organization.

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

Eight major union nations, among them Australia, recently announced a ban on athletes signing with R360 playing international matches.

“We heard our clubs and we've responded strongly,” commented the league's chief the official.

“Regrettably, there will continually be entities that try to exploit our code for economic benefit.

“They fail to contribute in talent pipelines or the advancement of players. They simply exploit the efforts of existing bodies, putting players at risk of economic hardship while profiting themselves.

“In truth, they represent, imitating the sport.”

The organization is established by ex-England star Tindall and funded by commercial backers.

Subsequent to the potential union prohibitions were declared recently, it stated: “We seek to cooperate together as integrated into the global rugby calendar.

“The series is designed with customized calendars 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 apply for endorsement for its initiatives from rugby union's governing body, rugby union's regulatory group, at its council meeting in 2026.