R360 Recruits Hit With Decade-Long Suspension from National Rugby League

The NRL's governing body has announced that participants who sign with the “counterfeit” R360 will be barred for 10 seasons.

The new league, scheduled to begin in late 2026, is aiming to attract players from union and league with hefty contracts and a reduced game calendar.

Prominent NRL athletes have allegedly been contacted by R360, which will involve six to eight men's teams and women's teams based in major cities around the world.

The Samoan the rugby star, who represents the Warriors in the league, has confirmed he has had talks with the new organization.

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

A group of union nations, including Australia, last week declared a prohibition on athletes signing with R360 participating in test matches.

“We've listened to our teams and we've acted decisively,” said Australian Rugby League Commission chief the official.

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

“They fail to contribute in pathways or the development of talent. They simply exploit the dedication of others, endangering athletes of monetary damage while gaining personally.

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

R360 is established by retired international Mike Tindall and supported by private investors.

Subsequent to the prospective rugby union sanctions were declared recently, it commented: “We seek to cooperate in partnership as a component of the worldwide fixture list.

“The competition is designed with tailored timetables for both genders and R360 will permit participants for global fixtures, as specified in their agreements.”

The breakaway group will apply for endorsement for its initiatives from rugby union's governing body, union's administrative organization, at its council meeting next year.