R360 Recruits Hit With 10-Season Ban from National Rugby League

The NRL's administration has declared that players who join the “breakaway” R360 competition will be prohibited for a decade.

The proposed competition, scheduled to begin in 2026, is seeking to lure athletes from both codes with substantial agreements and a reduced game calendar.

Prominent NRL stars have allegedly been contacted by the new league, which will involve multiple men's sides and four women's teams based in key urban centers globally.

Representing Samoa the rugby star, who is with his NRL club in the league, has stated he has had discussions with R360.

Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Gray are also reported to be weighing up offers from the new competition.

Eight major union nations, such as Australia, earlier imposed a restriction on athletes signing with R360 playing test matches.

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

“Regrettably, there will persistently exist organizations that try to exploit our game for economic benefit.

“They don't invest in pathways or the development of talent. They merely capitalize on the hard work of other organizations, jeopardizing careers of economic hardship while profiting themselves.

“Essentially, they are, counterfeiting a code.”

R360 is established by former England World Cup winner Tindall and funded by commercial backers.

After the potential rugby union sanctions were revealed recently, it stated: “We seek to cooperate in partnership as part of the international rugby schedule.

“The series is arranged with customized calendars for men's and women's teams and R360 will permit participants for test matches, as included in their deals.”

The breakaway group will request authorization for its initiatives from rugby union's governing body, the sport's administrative organization, at its official gathering in the coming year.