R360 Competition Recruits Hit With 10-Season Exclusion from NRL

The NRL's authority has declared that athletes who join the “rebel” R360 will be barred for 10 seasons.

R360, set to start in 2026, is hoping to draw players from union and league with substantial agreements and a condensed game calendar.

Prominent NRL players have reportedly been approached by the new league, which will include multiple men's clubs and women's teams operating from major cities around the world.

The Samoan the player, who represents the Warriors in the league, has said he has had discussions with the new organization.

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

A group of union teams, including Australia, earlier announced a restriction on athletes signing with R360 playing test matches.

“We've listened to our teams and we've responded strongly,” said the league's head Peter V'Landys.

“Regrettably, there will always be organizations that seek to pirate our code for economic benefit.

“They fail to contribute in development systems or the development of talent. They merely capitalize on the dedication of other organizations, jeopardizing careers of monetary damage while profiting themselves.

“They are, in reality, counterfeiting a code.”

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

Following the possible union sanctions were declared earlier, it stated: “We aim to collaborate in partnership as integrated into the global rugby calendar.

“The event is structured with tailored timetables for male and female sides and R360 will release all players for test matches, as written into their contracts.”

The new league will apply for endorsement for its initiatives from the international authority, rugby union's regulatory group, at its council meeting in 2026.