R360 Competition Recruits Hit With 10-Season Suspension from NRL

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

The proposed competition, set to start in 2026, is hoping to draw athletes from both codes with hefty contracts and a slimmed-down playing schedule.

Prominent NRL athletes have reportedly been approached by the new league, which will include six or eight men's clubs and four women's sides located in major cities globally.

The Samoan Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who plays for the Warriors in the competition, has confirmed he has had discussions with R360.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Haas and Jye Gray are also reported to be considering joining R360.

Several leading rugby union nations, such as Australia, recently declared a prohibition on players joining R360 participating in international matches.

“We have consulted our franchises and we've responded strongly,” commented ARLC chief the official.

“Unfortunately, there will always be groups that seek to pirate our sport for economic benefit.

“They fail to contribute in pathways or the development of athletes. They only leverage the hard work of existing bodies, endangering athletes of economic hardship while gaining personally.

“They are, in reality, copying the game.”

The organization is co-founded by retired international Tindall and funded by commercial backers.

After the possible rugby union bans were declared recently, it said: “We aim to collaborate collaboratively as a component of the global rugby calendar.

“The event is structured with bespoke schedules for male and female sides and we will allow all athletes for test matches, as written into their deals.”

The breakaway group will seek approval for its plans from World Rugby, the sport's regulatory group, at its official gathering in 2026.