R360 Competition Recruits Face Decade-Long Exclusion from Australia's Rugby League

The NRL's governing body has declared that participants who join the “rebel” R360 competition will be prohibited for a decade.

R360, set to start in 2026, is aiming to attract players from union and league with lucrative deals and a condensed playing schedule.

Prominent NRL stars have reportedly been approached by the breakaway group, which will include six or eight men's teams and four women's sides operating from large metropolitan areas around the world.

Representing Samoa the player, who represents New Zealand Warriors in the league, has confirmed he has had negotiations involving the breakaway league.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Haas and Gray are also believed to be weighing up offers from the new competition.

A group of union countries, such as Australia, earlier declared a prohibition on R360 recruits participating in global fixtures.

“We've listened to our franchises and we've responded strongly,” commented ARLC chairman the official.

“Sadly, there will persistently exist entities that try to exploit our sport for potential financial gain.

“They don't invest in pathways or the growth of athletes. They merely capitalize on the efforts of others, jeopardizing careers of monetary damage while profiting themselves.

“Essentially, they are, copying the game.”

The organization is co-founded by retired international Tindall and supported by private investors.

After the potential union bans were announced last week, it said: “We want to work collaboratively as a component of the international rugby schedule.

“The event is structured with customized calendars for both genders and R360 will allow all athletes for international matches, as included in their contracts.”

R360 will apply for endorsement for its initiatives from World Rugby, the sport's administrative organization, at its board session in the coming year.