R360 Players Face 10-Year Ban from NRL

Rugby league's administration has announced that players who enter the “rebel” R360 league will be banned for a decade.

The proposed competition, set to start in 2026, is seeking to lure rugby union and rugby league players with lucrative deals and a slimmed-down fixture list.

Prominent National Rugby League athletes have reportedly received offers by the breakaway group, which will involve multiple men's clubs and women's teams located in major cities worldwide.

Representing Samoa the rugby star, who plays for New Zealand Warriors in the league, has stated he has had discussions with R360.

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

A group of union countries, including Australia, recently declared a restriction on players joining R360 appearing in global fixtures.

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

“Regrettably, there will persistently exist organizations that try to exploit our game for monetary profit.

“They don't invest in pathways or the development of players. They only leverage the dedication of others, putting players at risk of monetary damage while benefiting financially.

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

R360 is established by ex-England star Tindall and funded by private investors.

After the possible rugby union prohibitions were announced last week, it commented: “We want to work in partnership as integrated into the global rugby calendar.

“The competition is arranged with tailored timetables for both genders and R360 will permit participants for international matches, as included in their deals.”

The new league will apply for endorsement for its plans from rugby union's governing body, union's governing body, at its council meeting in 2026.