R360 Competition Players Hit With 10-Season Ban from National Rugby League

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

The proposed competition, which plans to launch in October 2026, is seeking to lure athletes from both codes with lucrative deals and a condensed game calendar.

Leading rugby league players have allegedly been contacted by R360, which will include six or eight men's sides and four women's sides based in key urban centers globally.

Samoa's Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who plays for the Warriors in the competition, has confirmed he has had talks with the new organization.

Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Haas and Gray are also said to be thinking about signing the rebel league.

Several leading union teams, such as Australia, recently imposed a prohibition on R360 recruits playing international matches.

“We have consulted our teams and we've responded strongly,” said ARLC chief Peter V'Landys.

“Sadly, there will persistently exist entities that attempt to hijack our code for potential financial gain.

“They fail to contribute in talent pipelines or the growth of athletes. They only leverage the dedication of others, jeopardizing careers of economic hardship while profiting themselves.

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

The organization is launched by retired international Tindall and supported by independent financiers.

Following the possible rugby union prohibitions were revealed earlier, it stated: “We want to work collaboratively as integrated into the global rugby calendar.

“The event is arranged with customized calendars for both genders and R360 will permit participants for global fixtures, as specified in their contracts.”

The new league will seek approval for its proposals from the international authority, rugby union's administrative organization, at its board session in 2026.