R360 League Players Hit With 10-Year Exclusion from NRL

Rugby league's administration has declared that athletes who sign with the “counterfeit” R360 competition will be prohibited for a decade.

The proposed competition, which plans to launch in 2026, is seeking to lure rugby union and rugby league players with lucrative deals and a reduced playing schedule.

Prominent National Rugby League stars have allegedly been contacted by R360, which will feature multiple men's sides and four women's sides based in key urban centers globally.

Samoa's the rugby star, who plays for New Zealand Warriors in the competition, has said he has had talks with the breakaway league.

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

A group of union nations, such as Australia, recently declared a restriction on R360 recruits participating in global fixtures.

“We've listened to our clubs and we've responded strongly,” commented Australian Rugby League Commission chairman the official.

“Sadly, there will persistently exist organizations that attempt to hijack our sport for economic benefit.

“They don't invest in pathways or the development of players. They merely capitalize on the dedication of other organizations, jeopardizing careers of monetary damage while benefiting financially.

“In truth, they represent, copying the game.”

R360 is co-founded by ex-England star Tindall and backed by private investors.

Following the possible union prohibitions were announced recently, it stated: “We seek to cooperate together as a component of the international rugby schedule.

“The competition is arranged with bespoke schedules for male and female sides and the organization will permit participants for test matches, as written into their agreements.”

The breakaway group will apply for endorsement for its plans from the international authority, union's regulatory group, at its official gathering in the coming year.