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national of australia Rugby League ,nrl) have dealt a further blow to the proposed rugby union competition R360, suggesting a 10-year ban would be imposed on any player signing with a breakaway league.
Co-founded by East of England Center mike tindallR360 is Scheduled to launch in October next year and aims to attract some of rugby’s biggest names across both codes with attractive deals and the possibility of a shorter season.
Reports in Australia have linked NRL stars including Nathan Cleary, Reece Walsh and Roger Tuivasa-Sheck to join the venture with a switch of codes – but the NRL has taken a tough stance in response to the threat.
The Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) stated that any player would be banned for 10 years from negotiating or signing a deal with “a football competition, league, or organization that is not recognized by the ARLC as a national sporting federation”, with any NRL-registered player agent also being banned for “acting, assisting, representing or advising a player in any capacity”.
ARLC chairman Peter V’Landys said, “The Commission has a clear duty to act in the best interests of rugby league and its fans and we will take all necessary steps to protect the future of the game.”
“Unfortunately, there will always be organizations that want to plunder our game for potential financial gain. They don’t invest in the development of pathways or players, they simply exploit the hard work of others, putting players at risk of financial loss while profiting themselves.”
The NRL has confirmed its position after the eight major rugby unions announced in a joint statement last week that they would ban it. Any player who joins R360 by playing internationally.
Backers of the R360 are confident they will launch in 2026, with a franchise-style competition set to apply for world rugby Recognition in June
“Recent announcements have, sadly, been anticipated,” said R360 co-CEO Mark Sprouse. “History has shown that when athletes are offered free choice and given new opportunities for themselves and their families, the risks to those players and women are created. R360 is about empowering players, giving them, the next generation of rugby lovers and fans the opportunity and new platform to enjoy the game we love.
“We know there is a lot of interest in understanding more about the global series we are building. We are on board with the plan and look forward to sharing and discussing details over the coming months. This will include details of the exciting male and female sporting talent who will be taking part in R360 when we launch in October 2026.”
Meanwhile, cell sharks fly half george ford Has committed his future to the club with a new three-year contract.
The 32-year-old won his 100th England cap during the summer tour of Argentina and is set to remain in Prem rugby beyond the 2027 World Cup.
“I want to continue to play well for Sale Sharks and impress the team as much as I can,” said Ford, who has had a great start to the new season. “He comes first.
“I love playing for my country but I know I will only get that opportunity if I continue to play well for Sale. So that’s what I’m focused on.”