R360 Competition Players Hit With Decade-Long Ban from Australia's Rugby League

The NRL's administration has announced that athletes who join the “rebel” R360 competition will be prohibited for a decade.

R360, scheduled to begin in late 2026, is aiming to attract athletes from both codes with hefty contracts and a condensed game calendar.

Leading rugby league players have allegedly been contacted by R360, which will involve multiple men's clubs and four women's sides based in key urban centers globally.

Representing Samoa Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who represents his NRL club in the NRL, has said he has had talks with R360.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Haas and Gray are also believed to be considering joining R360.

A group of union teams, among them Australia, last week announced a restriction on athletes signing with R360 playing international matches.

“We heard our teams and we've taken firm action,” commented the league's chairman V'Landys.

“Regrettably, there will persistently exist organizations that try to exploit our code for potential financial gain.

“They avoid funding in development systems or the advancement of athletes. They only leverage the dedication of others, endangering athletes of economic hardship while benefiting financially.

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

The league is established by retired international Mike Tindall and supported by independent financiers.

After the potential union sanctions were declared recently, it commented: “We seek to cooperate together as integrated into the global rugby calendar.

“The event is structured with tailored timetables for male and female sides and the organization will permit participants for international matches, as specified in their agreements.”

The breakaway group will seek approval for its proposals from World Rugby, rugby union's administrative organization, at its council meeting next year.