R360 Players Subject to 10-Year Ban from National Rugby League

The NRL's authority has declared that players who join the “rebel” R360 will be prohibited for 10 years.

The new league, set to start in 2026, is seeking to lure athletes from both codes with substantial agreements and a reduced playing schedule.

Top NRL players have reportedly been approached by the new league, which will include six to eight men's clubs and four women's sides located in key urban centers globally.

Samoa's Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who represents his NRL club in the NRL, has said he has had discussions with the breakaway league.

Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Payne Haas and Gray are also said to be weighing up offers from the rebel league.

Eight major union nations, including Australia, recently imposed a restriction on R360 recruits playing test matches.

“We heard our franchises and we've acted decisively,” stated ARLC chairman Peter V'Landys.

“Regrettably, there will always be groups that try to exploit our sport for economic benefit.

“They fail to contribute in development systems or the growth of athletes. They merely capitalize on the hard work of existing bodies, endangering athletes of monetary damage while gaining personally.

“Essentially, they are, counterfeiting a code.”

The organization is launched by former England World Cup winner Tindall and supported by independent financiers.

After the possible rugby union prohibitions were announced recently, it commented: “We seek to cooperate collaboratively as a component of the worldwide fixture list.

“The event is arranged with tailored timetables for both genders and R360 will allow all athletes for international matches, as specified in their agreements.”

The new league will request authorization for its initiatives from World Rugby, rugby union's regulatory group, at its council meeting in 2026.