R360 Athletes Face 10-Season Exclusion from Australia's Rugby League

The NRL's governing body has declared that players who join the “rebel” R360 will be banned for 10 years.

The new league, set to start in 2026, is aiming to attract players from union and league with substantial agreements and a reduced playing schedule.

Prominent NRL stars have reportedly been approached by R360, which will include six or eight men's clubs and women's teams located in major cities globally.

Representing Samoa the rugby star, who is with the Warriors in the NRL, has stated he has had talks with the new organization.

Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Payne Haas and Gray are also said to be weighing up offers from R360.

Several leading rugby union nations, among them Australia, earlier imposed a ban on athletes signing with R360 participating in global fixtures.

“We heard our teams and we've taken firm action,” said Australian Rugby League Commission chairman the official.

“Unfortunately, there will always be groups that attempt to hijack our game for economic benefit.

“They fail to contribute in development systems or the development of talent. They only leverage the dedication of other organizations, jeopardizing careers of economic hardship while gaining personally.

“They are, in reality, copying the game.”

The organization is co-founded by former England World Cup winner Mike Tindall and backed by independent financiers.

Subsequent to the possible rugby union sanctions were revealed last week, it stated: “We want to work together as part of the global rugby calendar.

“The event is designed with customized calendars for men's and women's teams and the organization will release all players for global fixtures, as specified in their agreements.”

R360 will apply for endorsement for its proposals from rugby union's governing body, union's administrative organization, at its official gathering in the coming year.