R360 Athletes Subject to 10-Year Ban from National Rugby League

Rugby league's governing body has stated that players who join the “rebel” R360 will be barred for a decade.

The new league, scheduled to begin in late 2026, is aiming to attract athletes from both codes with hefty contracts and a condensed playing schedule.

Leading National Rugby League players have allegedly been contacted by the new league, which will include six to eight men's teams and four women's teams based in major cities around the world.

Representing Samoa Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who plays for his NRL club in the league, has confirmed he has had negotiations involving the new organization.

Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Haas and Gray are also said to be thinking about signing the rebel league.

Eight major union teams, among them Australia, recently announced a ban on R360 recruits playing international matches.

“We heard our clubs and we've taken firm action,” said ARLC chief V'Landys.

“Sadly, there will persistently exist organizations that attempt to hijack our code for potential financial gain.

“They avoid funding in development systems or the growth of athletes. They simply exploit the dedication of other organizations, jeopardizing careers of economic hardship while gaining personally.

“In truth, they represent, imitating the sport.”

The league is launched by ex-England star Mike Tindall and funded by independent financiers.

After the potential rugby union sanctions were announced earlier, it commented: “We seek to cooperate in partnership as part of the global rugby calendar.

“The event is arranged with customized calendars for men's and women's teams and R360 will allow all athletes for test matches, as written into their agreements.”

The new league will request authorization for its proposals from World Rugby, the sport's governing body, at its official gathering in 2026.