R360 Competition Recruits Hit With Decade-Long Ban from NRL

The NRL's governing body has declared that participants who join the “rebel” R360 competition will be prohibited for a decade.

The new league, scheduled to begin in late 2026, is aiming to attract rugby union and rugby league players with substantial agreements and a reduced playing schedule.

Leading rugby league athletes have reportedly received offers by R360, which will include six or eight men's sides and four women's teams operating from key urban centers around the world.

Samoa's the rugby star, who plays for the Warriors in the league, has stated he has had negotiations involving R360.

Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Jye Gray are also believed to be considering joining R360.

Eight major union countries, such as Australia, last week announced a ban on R360 recruits participating in test matches.

“We've listened to our teams and we've acted decisively,” stated the league's chief Peter V'Landys.

“Sadly, there will always be organizations that attempt to hijack our sport for potential financial gain.

“They fail to contribute in talent pipelines or the advancement of talent. They simply exploit the dedication of others, endangering athletes of monetary damage while profiting themselves.

“In truth, they represent, counterfeiting a code.”

R360 is co-founded by former England World Cup winner Mike Tindall and supported by commercial backers.

Subsequent to the possible rugby union prohibitions were declared recently, it said: “We aim to collaborate in partnership as integrated into the worldwide fixture list.

“The event is structured with bespoke schedules for male and female sides and R360 will permit participants for test matches, as specified in their contracts.”

The new league will apply for endorsement for its initiatives from the international authority, the sport's administrative organization, at its board session next year.