R360 Competition Recruits Face 10-Season Exclusion from Australia's Rugby League

The NRL's governing body has declared that athletes who enter the “breakaway” R360 competition will be banned for a decade.

The proposed competition, which plans to launch in late 2026, is hoping to draw players from union and league with substantial agreements and a slimmed-down fixture list.

Top National Rugby League stars have reportedly received offers by the breakaway group, which will include six or eight men's clubs and four women's teams located in major cities globally.

Samoa's the rugby star, who represents his NRL club in the competition, has said he has had discussions with R360.

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

Eight major union teams, among them Australia, recently declared a prohibition on R360 recruits participating in global fixtures.

“We heard our teams and we've responded strongly,” stated Australian Rugby League Commission chairman V'Landys.

“Sadly, there will always be entities that try to exploit our game for monetary profit.

“They don't invest in pathways or the advancement of talent. They simply exploit the dedication of others, putting players at risk of financial loss while benefiting financially.

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

The organization is launched by retired international Mike Tindall and backed by independent financiers.

After the potential union sanctions were announced earlier, it said: “We seek to cooperate in partnership as a component of the worldwide fixture list.

“The competition is designed with customized calendars for both genders and we will release all players for international matches, as included in their contracts.”

R360 will seek approval for its initiatives from the international authority, rugby union's administrative organization, at its council meeting next year.