R360 Recruits Subject to Decade-Long Suspension from NRL

The NRL's administration has announced that players who join the “counterfeit” R360 competition will be banned for 10 seasons.

The proposed competition, set to start in October 2026, is aiming to attract rugby union and rugby league players with hefty contracts and a reduced game calendar.

Top National Rugby League athletes have allegedly been contacted by R360, which will involve six to eight men's sides and four women's teams operating from major cities worldwide.

The Samoan the rugby star, who is with his NRL club in the NRL, has confirmed he has had negotiations involving R360.

Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Gray are also reported to be thinking about signing R360.

A group of union countries, including Australia, earlier announced a ban on R360 recruits participating in global fixtures.

“We have consulted our franchises and we've responded strongly,” commented ARLC head the official.

“Unfortunately, there will always be entities that try to exploit our sport for potential financial gain.

“They fail to contribute in development systems or the growth of talent. They merely capitalize on the efforts of others, jeopardizing careers of monetary damage while benefiting financially.

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

The organization is launched by ex-England star Mike Tindall and backed by independent financiers.

Following the possible union sanctions were revealed earlier, it commented: “We want to work in partnership as part of the worldwide fixture list.

“The series is structured with customized calendars for male and female sides and the organization will release all players for global fixtures, as specified in their agreements.”

The new league will seek approval for its proposals from rugby union's governing body, union's regulatory group, at its official gathering next year.