R360 League Athletes Subject to Decade-Long Ban from NRL

The NRL's administration has stated that athletes who join the “counterfeit” R360 league will be barred for a decade.

The proposed competition, which plans to launch in 2026, is seeking to lure rugby union and rugby league players with lucrative deals and a slimmed-down fixture list.

Prominent National Rugby League players have reportedly been approached by R360, which will involve multiple men's sides and four women's sides located in major cities around the world.

Representing Samoa the rugby star, who is with New Zealand Warriors in the competition, has stated he has had talks with the breakaway league.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Haas and Gray are also reported to be thinking about signing the new competition.

A group of union countries, such as Australia, last week announced a prohibition on R360 recruits playing international matches.

“We heard our franchises and we've responded strongly,” commented the league's head the official.

“Unfortunately, there will persistently exist groups that try to exploit our game for economic benefit.

“They don't invest in talent pipelines or the advancement of players. They only leverage the dedication of others, endangering athletes of monetary damage while benefiting financially.

“Essentially, they are, counterfeiting a code.”

The organization is launched by retired international Mike Tindall and funded by commercial backers.

Following the potential rugby union prohibitions were declared earlier, it said: “We aim to collaborate in partnership as a component of the global rugby calendar.

“The series is structured with customized calendars for men's and women's teams and we will permit participants for global fixtures, as specified in their contracts.”

The breakaway group will request authorization for its plans from World Rugby, rugby union's administrative organization, at its board session in the coming year.