R360 Competition Players Hit With 10-Season Ban from Australia's Rugby League

The NRL's authority has declared that participants who sign with the “rebel” R360 league will be prohibited for 10 seasons.

The new league, which plans to launch in October 2026, is seeking to lure athletes from both codes with lucrative deals and a slimmed-down playing schedule.

Prominent NRL players have allegedly been contacted by R360, which will involve multiple men's clubs and women's teams based in major cities globally.

Samoa's Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who represents his NRL club in the NRL, has stated he has had discussions with R360.

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

Several leading union nations, including Australia, recently declared a restriction on athletes signing with R360 participating in test matches.

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

“Unfortunately, there will always be entities that attempt to hijack our game for monetary profit.

“They avoid funding in pathways or the growth of talent. They simply exploit the hard work of other organizations, jeopardizing careers of economic hardship while gaining personally.

“In truth, they represent, imitating the sport.”

The league is co-founded by ex-England star Mike Tindall and funded by independent financiers.

Following the potential rugby union bans were revealed recently, it commented: “We aim to collaborate together as part of the international rugby schedule.

“The competition is designed with customized calendars for male and female sides and we will permit participants for international matches, as specified in their deals.”

The new league will apply for endorsement for its initiatives from the international authority, union's administrative organization, at its official gathering next year.