R360 League Players Face 10-Season Ban from Australia's Rugby League

Australian rugby league's authority has declared that athletes who sign with the “counterfeit” R360 competition will be barred for a decade.

R360, scheduled to begin in 2026, is seeking to lure rugby union and rugby league players with hefty contracts and a slimmed-down game calendar.

Leading NRL stars have reportedly received offers by R360, which will involve multiple men's clubs and four women's teams located in large metropolitan areas globally.

The Samoan the player, who represents New Zealand Warriors in the competition, has said he has had discussions with the new organization.

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

A group of rugby union countries, such as Australia, recently declared a restriction on players joining R360 playing test matches.

“We have consulted our clubs and we've taken firm action,” said Australian Rugby League Commission head the official.

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

“They avoid funding in pathways or the advancement of talent. They simply exploit the dedication of other organizations, putting players at risk of economic hardship while gaining personally.

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

R360 is launched by ex-England star Mike Tindall and supported by independent financiers.

Subsequent to the prospective rugby union bans were declared last week, it commented: “We seek to cooperate collaboratively as integrated into the international rugby schedule.

“The event is arranged with customized calendars for men's and women's teams and we will release all players for global fixtures, as specified in their agreements.”

R360 will apply for endorsement for its plans from World Rugby, the sport's administrative organization, at its official gathering next year.