R360 League Players Face 10-Year Suspension from NRL

The NRL's authority has declared that participants who enter the “breakaway” R360 league will be barred for 10 years.

The new league, set to start in late 2026, is seeking to lure athletes from both codes with substantial agreements and a reduced fixture list.

Top rugby league stars have reportedly been approached by the new league, which will feature multiple men's teams and four women's sides operating from large metropolitan areas globally.

Representing Samoa Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who plays for New Zealand Warriors in the competition, has said he has had discussions with the breakaway league.

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

Several leading rugby union countries, including Australia, last week announced a restriction on players joining R360 participating in international matches.

“We have consulted our clubs and we've acted decisively,” commented ARLC chief the official.

“Regrettably, there will persistently exist groups that attempt to hijack our game for monetary profit.

“They avoid funding in pathways or the growth of talent. They merely capitalize on the hard work of other organizations, putting players at risk of monetary damage while benefiting financially.

“Essentially, they are, counterfeiting a code.”

The organization is established by retired international Tindall and backed by private investors.

After the possible union sanctions were declared recently, it stated: “We aim to collaborate together as integrated into the international rugby schedule.

“The competition is arranged with bespoke schedules for male and female sides and the organization will permit participants for global fixtures, as specified in their deals.”

The new league will request authorization for its plans from the international authority, the sport's administrative organization, at its board session in 2026.