The Australian Rugby League has issued a bold warning — any player who joins the upcoming R360 League will face a 10-year ban from the sport’s official competitions.
The ruling comes as the breakaway R360 league — backed by former England World Cup winner Mike Tindall and private investors — prepares to launch in October 2026. The league promises hefty contracts, a global playing format, and a lighter schedule designed to attract stars from both rugby union and rugby league.
Reports suggest that several top National Rugby League (NRL) players, including Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, Ryan Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas, and Jye Gray, have already been approached by R360 representatives.
However, the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) isn’t having it.
“Unfortunately, there will always be organisations that seek to pirate our game for potential financial gain,” said ARLC chairman Peter V’Landys.
“They don’t invest in pathways or player development. They simply exploit the hard work of others. They are, in reality, counterfeiting a code.”
Eight major rugby union nations, including Australia, have also announced bans on R360 recruits from playing international matches — a move that further complicates the breakaway league’s ambitions.
Despite the backlash, R360 insists its goal is to “empower players” and “create opportunities for fans and athletes.”
“History shows that when athletes are offered free choice, threats often follow,” said R360 co-CEO Mark Spoors.
“R360 is about new platforms, fresh opportunities, and building a global series for the next generation of fans.”
The league plans to feature between six to eight men’s teams and four women’s teams, based in key cities around the world. R360 will seek formal approval from World Rugby at its next council meeting in 2026.
One thing’s clear — this isn’t just a game; it’s a power struggle for rugby’s future.
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