R360 Competition Recruits Subject to Decade-Long Exclusion from NRL

Australian rugby league's governing body has stated that players who enter the “rebel” R360 competition will be prohibited for 10 seasons.

R360, which plans to launch in 2026, is seeking to lure players from union and league with substantial agreements and a reduced playing schedule.

Top National Rugby League athletes have reportedly been approached by the new league, which will include six to eight men's sides and four women's teams based in large metropolitan areas worldwide.

The Samoan the player, who plays for New Zealand Warriors in the NRL, has confirmed he has had discussions with the new organization.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Jye Gray are also said to be weighing up offers from the new competition.

Eight major rugby union countries, among them Australia, earlier announced a prohibition on players joining R360 appearing in test matches.

“We have consulted our teams and we've taken firm action,” said Australian Rugby League Commission chief Peter V'Landys.

“Sadly, there will continually be groups that seek to pirate our sport for potential financial gain.

“They fail to contribute in development systems or the development of players. They simply exploit the efforts of others, jeopardizing careers of financial loss while benefiting financially.

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

The organization is launched by ex-England star Mike Tindall and backed by private investors.

After the potential union sanctions were announced last week, it stated: “We want to work collaboratively as a component of the international rugby schedule.

“The series is structured with bespoke schedules for both genders and R360 will permit participants for test matches, as included in their agreements.”

R360 will apply for endorsement for its proposals from the international authority, union's regulatory group, at its council meeting next year.