R360 Athletes Subject to Decade-Long Suspension from NRL

The NRL's governing body has announced that athletes who sign with the “counterfeit” R360 competition will be prohibited for a decade.

R360, which plans to launch in 2026, is hoping to draw athletes from both codes with lucrative deals and a slimmed-down game calendar.

Prominent rugby league athletes have reportedly been approached by the new league, which will involve six or eight men's sides and women's teams operating from key urban centers worldwide.

Representing Samoa the player, who is with New Zealand Warriors in the NRL, has stated he has had discussions with the breakaway league.

Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Haas and Gray are also believed to be considering joining the new competition.

A group of union teams, such as Australia, recently imposed a ban on R360 recruits playing test matches.

“We heard our clubs and we've acted decisively,” stated Australian Rugby League Commission chief Peter V'Landys.

“Regrettably, there will always be groups that seek to pirate our code for potential financial gain.

“They fail to contribute in development systems or the advancement of athletes. They simply exploit the hard work of existing bodies, putting players at risk of economic hardship while benefiting financially.

“They are, in reality, copying the game.”

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

Following the possible union prohibitions were announced last week, it commented: “We seek to cooperate together as a component of the international rugby schedule.

“The competition is structured with tailored timetables for both genders and we will release all players for global fixtures, as specified in their contracts.”

The new league will request authorization for its initiatives from rugby union's governing body, the sport's governing body, at its council meeting in 2026.