R360 Competition Recruits Hit With Decade-Long Exclusion from NRL

Rugby league's governing body has announced that participants who enter the “counterfeit” R360 league will be barred for 10 seasons.

The proposed competition, scheduled to begin in 2026, is hoping to draw athletes from both codes with lucrative deals and a condensed fixture list.

Prominent NRL stars have reportedly received offers by R360, which will involve six or eight men's sides and women's teams located in key urban centers worldwide.

The Samoan the rugby star, who plays for the Warriors in the NRL, has confirmed he has had negotiations involving the new organization.

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

Several leading rugby union nations, such as Australia, recently announced a restriction on R360 recruits participating in global fixtures.

“We've listened to our franchises and we've responded strongly,” commented the league's chief V'Landys.

“Unfortunately, there will always be entities that seek to pirate our code for potential financial gain.

“They fail to contribute in development systems or the growth of talent. They simply exploit the dedication of existing bodies, jeopardizing careers of economic hardship while benefiting financially.

“Essentially, they are, copying the game.”

The organization is established by former England World Cup winner Tindall and funded by private investors.

After the possible union prohibitions were revealed earlier, it commented: “We seek to cooperate together as part of the worldwide fixture list.

“The event is designed with customized calendars for men's and women's teams and the organization will allow all athletes for global fixtures, as included in their deals.”

The breakaway group will seek approval for its proposals from World Rugby, rugby union's governing body, at its board session next year.