R360 Recruits Subject to 10-Season Exclusion from National Rugby League

The NRL's administration has declared that athletes who enter the “breakaway” R360 competition will be prohibited for 10 years.

The new league, which plans to launch in October 2026, is seeking to lure rugby union and rugby league players with lucrative deals and a reduced game calendar.

Top NRL athletes have reportedly received offers by R360, which will feature six to eight men's clubs and four women's teams located in key urban centers around the world.

The Samoan Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who is with his NRL club in the league, has said he has had negotiations involving the new organization.

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

Eight major union teams, including Australia, earlier declared a prohibition on players joining R360 playing test matches.

“We've listened to our clubs and we've taken firm action,” said Australian Rugby League Commission chief the official.

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

“They avoid funding in pathways or the growth of athletes. They simply exploit the hard work of existing bodies, endangering athletes of financial loss while benefiting financially.

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

The league is co-founded by former England World Cup winner Mike Tindall and supported by commercial backers.

Subsequent to the possible rugby union bans were declared last week, it said: “We aim to collaborate together as a component of the international rugby schedule.

“The series is arranged with customized calendars for both genders and the organization will permit participants for international matches, as written into their contracts.”

The breakaway group will seek approval for its proposals from rugby union's governing body, the sport's governing body, at its council meeting in 2026.