R360 League Athletes Face Decade-Long Suspension from NRL

The NRL's governing body has stated that participants who join the “counterfeit” R360 league will be barred for 10 seasons.

The proposed competition, which plans to launch in 2026, is seeking to lure athletes from both codes with lucrative deals and a reduced playing schedule.

Leading National Rugby League athletes have reportedly been approached by R360, which will feature six to eight men's clubs and four women's sides located in key urban centers globally.

Samoa's the rugby star, who represents New Zealand Warriors in the league, has confirmed he has had negotiations involving the new organization.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Haas and Gray are also said to be thinking about signing R360.

Eight major rugby union nations, including Australia, recently imposed a restriction on players joining R360 playing international matches.

“We have consulted our clubs and we've responded strongly,” commented ARLC chief V'Landys.

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

“They don't invest in development systems or the growth of talent. They merely capitalize on the efforts of others, endangering athletes of monetary damage while benefiting financially.

“They are, in reality, counterfeiting a code.”

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

Subsequent to the potential union bans were announced last week, it said: “We seek to cooperate in partnership as integrated into the worldwide fixture list.

“The series is designed with tailored timetables for both genders and R360 will release all players for test matches, as included in their agreements.”

The new league will apply for endorsement for its initiatives from the international authority, the sport's governing body, at its board session in 2026.