R360 Competition Recruits Hit With Decade-Long Suspension from NRL

The NRL's authority has announced that players who join the “counterfeit” R360 competition will be barred for 10 seasons.

The proposed competition, set to start in October 2026, is seeking to lure players from union and league with hefty contracts and a condensed game calendar.

Leading rugby league athletes have allegedly been contacted by R360, which will feature multiple men's sides and four women's teams located in major cities around the world.

The Samoan Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who plays for the Warriors in the competition, has said he has had talks with the new organization.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Payne Haas and Gray are also believed to be weighing up offers from the rebel league.

A group of rugby union teams, among them Australia, last week announced a ban on athletes signing with R360 participating in international matches.

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

“Regrettably, there will continually be groups that attempt to hijack our code for monetary profit.

“They fail to contribute in pathways or the development of athletes. They merely capitalize on the dedication of other organizations, jeopardizing careers of financial loss while gaining personally.

“In truth, they represent, counterfeiting a code.”

The league is established by ex-England star Tindall and funded by independent financiers.

Following the possible union sanctions were declared last week, it stated: “We aim to collaborate together as integrated into the international rugby schedule.

“The series is designed with customized calendars for male and female sides and the organization will allow all athletes for test matches, as included in their agreements.”

The new league will seek approval for its plans from World Rugby, union's administrative organization, at its official gathering in 2026.