NRL Cracks Down on Rebel League: 10-Year Bans for Defectors

ARLC Chairman Peter V'Landys (left), Andrew Abdo (right) and his team are taking a strong stance against Rugby 360

The Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) has taken decisive action to protect its talent by threatening 10-year bans for any players who join the rival R360 league.

“They don't invest in pathways or the development of players, they simply exploit the hard work of others...”

The Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) has taken decisive action against the rebel Rugby 360 league, threatening 10-year bans for any NRL players who defect. The move comes after R360, led by former England rugby union star Mike Tindall, reportedly offered substantial sums to top players in both rugby codes.

The ARLC's ban will also apply to player agents who facilitate deals with R360, prohibiting them from working in the NRL for a decade. ARLC Chairman Peter V'Landys stated that the commission has a duty to protect the sport's integrity and will take all necessary steps to prevent unrecognized competitions from undermining the game.

The Australian Rugby League Commission has announced a 10-year ban for NRL players who negotiate or sign agreements with unrecognized football competitions. This decision aims to protect the integrity and professionalism of rugby league.

NRL-registered player agents who assist or advise players in dealings with unrecognized leagues will also face a 10-year ban. This strict policy ensures that all stakeholders adhere to the standards expected by the game's fans and stakeholders.

“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,” said ARLC chairman Peter V'landys.

“Unfortunately, there will always be organisations that seek to pirate our game for potential financial gain.

“They don't invest in pathways or the development of players, they simply exploit the hard work of others, putting players at risk of financial loss while profiting themselves.”

R360 co-CEO Mark Spoors anticipated the backlash, stating, “Recent announcements, sadly, have been anticipated.” He emphasized that R360 is about empowering players, providing fresh opportunities, and giving fans new platforms to enjoy the sport.

“History shows that when athletes are offered free choice and given fresh opportunities for them and their families then threats to those sportsmen and women follow,” he added.

“R360 is about empowering players, giving them, rugby lovers and the next generation of fans opportunities and new platforms to enjoy the sport we love.

“We know there is much interest in understanding more about the global series we're building. We remain on plan and look forward to sharing and discussing the detail in the coming months.”

The looming threat of R360 has brought together rugby league and rugby union, with the two codes presenting a united front against the breakaway league. This rare show of unity is reminiscent of the historic split between the two sports in 1895.

Eight major rugby unions, including New Zealand, Australia, and England, have issued a joint statement warning players that defecting to R360 will make them ineligible for international selection. The unions expressed concerns over R360's business model and lack of transparency regarding player welfare and competition scheduling.

The unions expressed concerns that R360 hasn't provided clarity on managing player welfare or integrating with international and domestic rugby calendars. This lack of transparency has raised questions about the competition's potential impact on players and the sport.

Look, I enjoy League, can't wait for the Ashes to start, but has V'Landys forgotten how League constantly raids junior/schools Rugby for talent? Surely, that's exploiting the hard work RA has done to invest in those pathways, so League can profit? Turn it up, Pete! #R360 https://t.co/kZQXqh46qX

— Raymond Nolan (@raymondnolan81) October 15, 2025

R360 responded by stating its intention to work within the existing global rugby calendar. The league's organizers emphasized that reducing player workload was a key motivator for creating the competition, aiming to provide a more sustainable and balanced schedule.

R360 plans to feature eight men's teams and four women's teams competing in a condensed grand prix-style format. The league aims to host events globally, targeting a unique and exciting format for fans.

R360 has not yet commented on the NRL's threat of bans for players who join the league. The lack of response suggests that R360 may be preparing a more detailed response to the NRL's move.