R360 Recruits Subject to 10-Year Suspension from Australia's Rugby League

The NRL's administration has stated that participants who join the “counterfeit” R360 will be barred for a decade.

The new league, which plans to launch in October 2026, is aiming to attract players from union and league with hefty contracts and a reduced game calendar.

Leading National Rugby League stars have reportedly received offers by the breakaway group, which will involve multiple men's sides and women's teams operating from key urban centers around the world.

The Samoan Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who represents New Zealand Warriors in the competition, has stated he has had negotiations involving R360.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Gray are also reported to be weighing up offers from R360.

Several leading union teams, including Australia, last week announced a ban on R360 recruits participating in test matches.

“We heard our clubs and we've acted decisively,” commented Australian Rugby League Commission chairman the official.

“Unfortunately, there will always be groups that try to exploit our game for monetary profit.

“They fail to contribute in talent pipelines or the advancement of players. They only leverage the efforts of other organizations, jeopardizing careers of monetary damage while profiting themselves.

“Essentially, they are, counterfeiting a code.”

The organization is co-founded by ex-England star Tindall and funded by private investors.

Following the possible rugby union bans were revealed recently, it commented: “We want to work in partnership as integrated into the worldwide fixture list.

“The series is structured with bespoke schedules for male and female sides and the organization will release all players for global fixtures, as included in their agreements.”

The new league will request authorization for its proposals from the international authority, union's governing body, at its board session in the coming year.