R360 Athletes Face Decade-Long Exclusion from National Rugby League

Australian rugby league's governing body has stated that athletes who sign with the “counterfeit” R360 league will be barred for 10 seasons.

R360, which plans to launch in October 2026, is hoping to draw rugby union and rugby league players with lucrative deals and a condensed playing schedule.

Leading rugby league stars have allegedly been contacted by the new league, which will involve six or eight men's sides and four women's teams based in key urban centers globally.

The Samoan the player, who plays for his NRL club in the competition, has stated he has had discussions with R360.

Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Gray are also reported to be considering joining R360.

A group of rugby union countries, among them Australia, last week declared a prohibition on athletes signing with R360 appearing in international matches.

“We have consulted our teams and we've responded strongly,” said the league's chief V'Landys.

“Regrettably, there will always be groups that attempt to hijack our game for potential financial gain.

“They don't invest in pathways or the growth of talent. They only leverage the dedication of other organizations, putting players at risk of economic hardship while benefiting financially.

“In truth, they represent, counterfeiting a code.”

R360 is established by former England World Cup winner Mike Tindall and supported by independent financiers.

Subsequent to the potential union bans were revealed recently, it commented: “We want to work collaboratively as a component of the global rugby calendar.

“The event is structured with customized calendars for male and female sides and the organization will allow all athletes for test matches, as specified in their deals.”

The new league will apply for endorsement for its initiatives from World Rugby, rugby union's governing body, at its board session in the coming year.