R360 Recruits Hit With Decade-Long Ban from NRL

The NRL's governing body has announced that athletes who enter the “breakaway” R360 will be banned for a decade.

The new league, set to start in 2026, is hoping to draw rugby union and rugby league players with lucrative deals and a reduced playing schedule.

Prominent National Rugby League players have reportedly received offers by the breakaway group, which will involve six to eight men's clubs and women's teams operating from major cities globally.

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

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Haas and Jye Gray are also reported to be weighing up offers from the new competition.

Eight major rugby union countries, such as Australia, last week declared a ban on athletes signing with R360 appearing in global fixtures.

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

“Sadly, there will always be organizations that attempt to hijack our code for economic benefit.

“They avoid funding in development systems or the development of players. They only leverage the dedication of others, putting players at risk of economic hardship while profiting themselves.

“They are, in reality, imitating the sport.”

R360 is co-founded by former England World Cup winner Mike Tindall and supported by private investors.

Following the potential union prohibitions were revealed last week, it stated: “We aim to collaborate collaboratively as a component of the global rugby calendar.

“The event is structured with bespoke schedules for men's and women's teams and the organization will release all players for global fixtures, as specified in their deals.”

The breakaway group will request authorization for its proposals from the international authority, rugby union's governing body, at its board session in 2026.