R360 Competition Athletes Face Decade-Long Exclusion from NRL

Australian rugby league's governing body has stated that participants who join the “counterfeit” R360 will be prohibited for 10 years.

The proposed competition, scheduled to begin in October 2026, is aiming to attract athletes from both codes with hefty contracts and a reduced game calendar.

Prominent NRL stars have allegedly been contacted by the new league, which will involve six to eight men's clubs and four women's teams located in major cities around the world.

Representing Samoa the player, who is with New Zealand Warriors in the NRL, has said he has had discussions with R360.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Payne Haas and Gray are also believed to be considering joining the new competition.

Several leading union teams, including Australia, last week announced a prohibition on athletes signing with R360 appearing in test matches.

“We heard our clubs and we've acted decisively,” said the league's head the official.

“Sadly, there will continually be organizations that attempt to hijack our code for economic benefit.

“They don't invest in talent pipelines or the growth of talent. They simply exploit the efforts of other organizations, jeopardizing careers of economic hardship while benefiting financially.

“They are, in reality, copying the game.”

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

Following the prospective union sanctions were revealed earlier, it stated: “We want to work together as part of the worldwide fixture list.

“The competition is structured with tailored timetables for male and female sides and R360 will allow all athletes for test matches, as included in their deals.”

The breakaway group will seek approval for its proposals from rugby union's governing body, rugby union's regulatory group, at its official gathering next year.