R360 Players Subject to 10-Season Exclusion from NRL

The NRL's governing body has stated that athletes who join the “rebel” R360 will be banned for 10 seasons.

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

Prominent rugby league athletes have reportedly received offers by R360, which will feature six or eight men's sides and women's teams located in large metropolitan areas worldwide.

The Samoan the player, who represents New Zealand Warriors in the NRL, has confirmed he has had negotiations involving the breakaway league.

Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Haas and Jye Gray are also reported to be thinking about signing the rebel league.

Eight major union countries, among them Australia, last week declared a restriction on players joining R360 participating in test matches.

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

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

“They avoid funding in development systems or the development of talent. They merely capitalize on the dedication of existing bodies, endangering athletes of monetary damage while profiting themselves.

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

The league is co-founded by retired international Mike Tindall and backed by independent financiers.

Subsequent to the possible rugby union bans were declared earlier, it said: “We aim to collaborate collaboratively as integrated into the global rugby calendar.

“The competition is structured with customized calendars for men's and women's teams and R360 will release all players for test matches, as specified in their contracts.”

R360 will apply for endorsement for its proposals from rugby union's governing body, union's administrative organization, at its council meeting in the coming year.