R360 Competition Recruits Subject to 10-Year Suspension from National Rugby League

The NRL's administration has declared that athletes who enter the “counterfeit” R360 competition will be barred for 10 seasons.

R360, set to start in late 2026, is seeking to lure athletes from both codes with substantial agreements and a reduced game calendar.

Prominent National Rugby League athletes have allegedly been contacted by the breakaway group, which will include multiple men's sides and women's teams operating from major cities around the world.

The Samoan the rugby star, who is with his NRL club in the league, has said he has had negotiations involving R360.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Haas and Jye Gray are also said to be thinking about signing R360.

Eight major union nations, among them Australia, earlier imposed a ban on athletes signing with R360 playing international matches.

“We have consulted our teams and we've acted decisively,” said ARLC chief Peter V'Landys.

“Sadly, there will continually be entities that seek to pirate our game for economic benefit.

“They avoid funding in pathways or the advancement of athletes. They merely capitalize on the hard work of others, putting players at risk of financial loss while benefiting financially.

“They are, in reality, counterfeiting a code.”

The organization is established by retired international Mike Tindall and funded by commercial backers.

Following the potential union sanctions were revealed last week, it stated: “We aim to collaborate together as integrated into 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 written into their agreements.”

R360 will apply for endorsement for its initiatives from rugby union's governing body, union's regulatory group, at its official gathering in the coming year.