R360 Players Subject to 10-Season Suspension from NRL

The NRL's governing body has declared that athletes who join the “rebel” R360 league will be barred for 10 seasons.

The new league, set to start in 2026, is hoping to draw rugby union and rugby league players with hefty contracts and a reduced game calendar.

Prominent rugby league athletes have allegedly been contacted by the new league, which will include six to eight men's sides and four women's sides operating from major cities globally.

The Samoan the rugby star, who represents the Warriors in the competition, has said he has had negotiations involving the new organization.

Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Haas and Gray are also said to be considering joining the new competition.

Several leading rugby union teams, among them Australia, earlier declared a restriction on R360 recruits participating in test matches.

“We heard our teams and we've responded strongly,” said the league's head the official.

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

“They don't invest in development systems or the development of talent. They simply exploit the efforts of others, putting players at risk of economic hardship while benefiting financially.

“Essentially, they are, counterfeiting a code.”

The organization is established by ex-England star Tindall and funded by private investors.

Subsequent to the possible union bans were announced recently, it commented: “We aim to collaborate together as integrated into the worldwide fixture list.

“The event is structured with tailored timetables for male and female sides and the organization will allow all athletes for test matches, as written into their agreements.”

The breakaway group will request authorization for its initiatives from World Rugby, the sport's administrative organization, at its official gathering next year.