The NRL has announced a 10-year ban for any player who leaves the code to join the breakaway R360 competition, in a bid to protect the sport's future. The ruling, issued on Wednesday, also threatens agents who facilitate such moves with suspension.
ARLC chair Peter V'landys stated that the commission has a duty to act against organisations that seek to 'pirate' the game for financial gain. 'They don't invest in pathways or the development of players. They simply exploit the hard work of others,' he said.
The ban applies to any competition not recognised by the Australian Rugby League Commission. Players under consideration for R360 include Ryan Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas, Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, and Jye Gray. Suspensions would take effect after a player leaves the NRL, allowing defectors to complete the 2026 season.
The NRL's move follows a meeting with club bosses last week, who demanded action against defecting players and managers. The league may lift the ban only in 'exceptionally extenuating circumstances' on a case-by-case basis.
Rugby Australia has also banned R360 players from representing the Wallabies, a stance supported by seven other nations. NRL CEO Andrew Abdo said the policy reflects a united front to protect the integrity of rugby league.
