R360 Competition Recruits Face Decade-Long Ban from National Rugby League

The NRL's administration has stated that athletes who join the “rebel” R360 competition will be barred for 10 seasons.

R360, scheduled to begin in 2026, is hoping to draw athletes from both codes with lucrative deals and a condensed playing schedule.

Top National Rugby League athletes have reportedly received offers by the breakaway group, which will feature six or eight men's teams and four women's sides operating from major cities around the world.

The Samoan the rugby star, who is with the Warriors in the NRL, has said he has had negotiations involving the new organization.

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

Several leading rugby union countries, including Australia, earlier announced a restriction on players joining R360 playing global fixtures.

“We heard our clubs and we've acted decisively,” said the league's chairman Peter V'Landys.

“Unfortunately, there will always be entities that attempt to hijack our game for economic benefit.

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

“They are, in reality, imitating the sport.”

The organization is launched by retired international Mike Tindall and backed by private investors.

Following the potential union sanctions were declared recently, it said: “We want to work together as integrated into the global rugby calendar.

“The competition is structured with bespoke schedules for both genders and the organization will allow all athletes for global fixtures, as included in their deals.”

The breakaway group will seek approval for its proposals from the international authority, union's regulatory group, at its official gathering next year.