R360 Players Face 10-Year Ban from NRL

The NRL's authority has declared that athletes who sign with the “rebel” R360 league will be barred for 10 years.

R360, set to start in October 2026, is aiming to attract players from union and league with lucrative deals and a slimmed-down playing schedule.

Prominent NRL players have reportedly received offers by the breakaway group, which will feature six or eight men's teams and four women's sides based in large metropolitan areas around the world.

The Samoan the player, who represents the Warriors in the competition, has stated he has had talks with R360.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Gray are also said to be weighing up offers from R360.

A group of union teams, among them Australia, recently declared a restriction on athletes signing with R360 participating in international matches.

“We heard our franchises and we've responded strongly,” commented Australian Rugby League Commission head the official.

“Regrettably, there will continually be groups that attempt to hijack our sport for economic benefit.

“They avoid funding in talent pipelines or the development of athletes. They merely capitalize on the efforts of others, putting players at risk of financial loss while profiting themselves.

“In truth, they represent, copying the game.”

R360 is co-founded by retired international Tindall and supported by private investors.

Following the possible union bans were announced earlier, it commented: “We aim to collaborate together as part of the international rugby schedule.

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

The breakaway group will apply for endorsement for its initiatives from World Rugby, union's governing body, at its board session next year.