R360 League Players Subject to 10-Year Suspension from NRL

Australian rugby league's administration has stated that athletes who sign with the “counterfeit” R360 will be prohibited for a decade.

The new league, scheduled to begin in October 2026, is seeking to lure players from union and league with hefty contracts and a condensed playing schedule.

Top rugby league athletes have reportedly been approached by the new league, which will feature six to eight men's teams and women's teams operating from key urban centers globally.

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

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Haas and Gray are also believed to be considering joining R360.

Eight major union teams, such as Australia, last week imposed a prohibition on athletes signing with R360 participating in international matches.

“We have consulted our teams and we've acted decisively,” said Australian Rugby League Commission chief Peter V'Landys.

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

“They avoid funding in talent pipelines or the advancement of talent. They simply exploit the efforts of others, jeopardizing careers of financial loss while profiting themselves.

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

The league is co-founded by retired international Mike Tindall and supported by private investors.

After the possible rugby union prohibitions were revealed recently, it said: “We want to work in partnership as a component of the global rugby calendar.

“The event is arranged with customized calendars for men's and women's teams and we will permit participants for global fixtures, as included in their contracts.”

The new league will apply for endorsement for its proposals from the international authority, union's governing body, at its official gathering in 2026.