R360 Players Subject to 10-Year Suspension from NRL

The NRL's governing body has stated that players who enter the “counterfeit” R360 league will be prohibited for 10 seasons.

The proposed competition, scheduled to begin in October 2026, is aiming to attract rugby union and rugby league players with lucrative deals and a reduced fixture list.

Top rugby league stars have reportedly received offers by the new league, which will include six to eight men's teams and women's teams located in large metropolitan areas worldwide.

Representing Samoa Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who represents the Warriors in the league, has confirmed he has had discussions with the new organization.

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

Eight major union countries, among them Australia, earlier announced a restriction on athletes signing with R360 appearing in test matches.

“We've listened to our teams and we've taken firm action,” said the league's chairman Peter V'Landys.

“Unfortunately, there will persistently exist organizations that seek to pirate our sport for potential financial gain.

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

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

R360 is established by ex-England star Mike Tindall and supported by commercial backers.

Following the possible rugby union sanctions were revealed recently, it stated: “We want to work together as a component of the worldwide fixture list.

“The series is designed with customized calendars for male and female sides and we will release all players for global fixtures, as written into their contracts.”

The breakaway group will request authorization for its proposals from the international authority, the sport's regulatory group, at its council meeting in 2026.