R360 Athletes Face 10-Year Ban from NRL

Australian rugby league's authority has announced that players who enter the “breakaway” R360 will be barred for 10 seasons.

R360, which plans to launch in 2026, is hoping to draw players from union and league with hefty contracts and a reduced playing schedule.

Prominent rugby league stars have reportedly received offers by the breakaway group, which will include multiple men's clubs and four women's sides located in large metropolitan areas around the world.

Samoa's the player, who is with New Zealand Warriors in the NRL, has stated he has had negotiations involving the new organization.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Payne Haas and Jye Gray are also believed to be considering joining the rebel league.

Several leading rugby union teams, among them Australia, last week imposed a restriction on athletes signing with R360 appearing in global fixtures.

“We have consulted our teams and we've taken firm action,” stated the league's chairman the official.

“Sadly, there will persistently exist groups that seek to pirate our code for potential financial gain.

“They avoid funding in development systems or the advancement of talent. They simply exploit the dedication of others, putting players at risk of financial loss while benefiting financially.

“Essentially, they are, copying the game.”

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

Following the potential union prohibitions were announced earlier, it said: “We seek to cooperate in partnership as a component of the global rugby calendar.

“The event is arranged with customized calendars for men's and women's teams and we will allow all athletes for test matches, as specified in their agreements.”

The breakaway group will seek approval for its plans from rugby union's governing body, rugby union's regulatory group, at its official gathering in the coming year.