R360 Competition Players Hit With 10-Season Ban from NRL

Rugby league's governing body has declared that players who join the “rebel” R360 competition will be banned for a decade.

The proposed competition, scheduled to begin in October 2026, is hoping to draw players from union and league with hefty contracts and a reduced game calendar.

Leading National Rugby League stars have allegedly been contacted by the breakaway group, which will involve multiple men's clubs and four women's teams located in large metropolitan areas around the world.

Representing Samoa Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who is with the Warriors in the competition, has confirmed he has had talks with R360.

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

Eight major union countries, such as Australia, last week announced a ban on R360 recruits playing test matches.

“We've listened to our teams and we've responded strongly,” stated ARLC head the official.

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

“They don't invest in pathways or the growth of athletes. They simply exploit the hard work of other organizations, endangering athletes of financial loss while benefiting financially.

“Essentially, they are, copying the game.”

R360 is established by former England World Cup winner Mike Tindall and backed by commercial backers.

Following the possible union sanctions were revealed last week, it said: “We seek to cooperate in partnership as a component of the global rugby calendar.

“The event is arranged with tailored timetables for both genders and R360 will release all players for test matches, as specified in their deals.”

The new league will seek approval for its plans from rugby union's governing body, the sport's governing body, at its board session in the coming year.