R360 Players Subject to 10-Year Ban from NRL

Australian rugby league's governing body has stated that players who join the “rebel” R360 competition will be prohibited for 10 years.

The proposed competition, set to start in October 2026, is hoping to draw athletes from both codes with lucrative deals and a condensed game calendar.

Prominent NRL athletes have reportedly been approached by R360, which will feature six to eight men's teams and women's teams located in key urban centers around the world.

Representing Samoa the rugby star, who represents his NRL club in the NRL, has said he has had discussions with the new organization.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Payne Haas and Gray are also reported to be considering joining the rebel league.

A group of union nations, such as Australia, last week announced a ban on players joining R360 participating in international matches.

“We have consulted our clubs and we've taken firm action,” stated ARLC head the official.

“Unfortunately, there will always be groups that try to exploit our code for economic benefit.

“They don't invest in development systems or the development of players. They only leverage the dedication of other organizations, putting players at risk of financial loss while profiting themselves.

“In truth, they represent, copying the game.”

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

After the possible rugby union sanctions were revealed recently, it said: “We seek to cooperate together as integrated into the worldwide fixture list.

“The series is structured with tailored timetables for men's and women's teams and R360 will allow all athletes for test matches, as written into their agreements.”

The new league will request authorization for its plans from the international authority, the sport's administrative organization, at its council meeting in 2026.