R360 Competition Athletes Subject to 10-Season Suspension from NRL

Rugby league's administration has stated that athletes who enter the “counterfeit” R360 competition will be prohibited for 10 seasons.

The proposed competition, set to start in late 2026, is seeking to lure athletes from both codes with lucrative deals and a condensed game calendar.

Top NRL athletes have reportedly received offers by the new league, which will feature multiple men's teams and four women's teams located in large metropolitan areas around the world.

Representing Samoa the player, who represents the Warriors in the NRL, has stated he has had talks with the new organization.

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

Eight major union countries, such as Australia, last week imposed a prohibition on R360 recruits participating in test matches.

“We've listened to our franchises and we've acted decisively,” commented Australian Rugby League Commission head V'Landys.

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

“They don't invest in talent pipelines or the growth of players. They merely capitalize on the efforts of others, putting players at risk of monetary damage while profiting themselves.

“Essentially, they are, imitating the sport.”

The organization is launched by former England World Cup winner Tindall and supported by private investors.

Subsequent to the prospective union bans were announced recently, it stated: “We aim to collaborate in partnership as integrated into the worldwide fixture list.

“The series is designed with bespoke schedules for men's and women's teams and the organization will release all players for test matches, as written into their contracts.”

The breakaway group will apply for endorsement for its initiatives from World Rugby, rugby union's regulatory group, at its board session next year.