R360 Competition Players Hit With Decade-Long Ban from NRL

Australian rugby league's administration has announced that athletes who join the “breakaway” R360 competition will be prohibited for 10 years.

The proposed competition, which plans to launch in October 2026, is seeking to lure rugby union and rugby league players with substantial agreements and a reduced game calendar.

Leading National Rugby League stars have allegedly been contacted by the breakaway group, which will feature six to eight men's clubs and women's teams based in key urban centers around the world.

The Samoan the player, who plays for the Warriors in the competition, has stated he has had talks with the new organization.

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

Several leading rugby union teams, including Australia, earlier imposed a restriction on R360 recruits participating in global fixtures.

“We have consulted our clubs and we've acted decisively,” stated Australian Rugby League Commission head the official.

“Unfortunately, there will continually be groups that attempt to hijack our sport for potential financial gain.

“They avoid funding in talent pipelines or the advancement of players. They only leverage the dedication of others, endangering athletes of financial loss while profiting themselves.

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

R360 is launched by ex-England star Mike Tindall and backed by independent financiers.

Following the possible rugby union bans were declared earlier, it stated: “We want to work together as part of the international rugby schedule.

“The event is arranged with customized calendars for both genders and R360 will release all players for test matches, as written into their contracts.”

The new league will request authorization for its plans from World Rugby, union's regulatory group, at its council meeting next year.