NRL enforces 10-year ban on players caught in R360 code fraud crackdown

The National Rugby League (NRL) is cracking down on the potential threat posed by the R360 rugby competition. As part of its response, the NRL announced a stringent 10-year ban for any player who decides to leave the league for this unrecognized competition. This ban will extend to agents involved in facilitating such moves.

Details of the Ban

The authorization of this ban follows a meeting with NRL club executives. The league aims to protect the future of professional rugby league in Australia. The new regulations will impact any player who defects to a competition not recognized by the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC).

Key Players at Risk

• Ryan Papenhuyzen
• Zac Lomax
• Payne Haas
• Roger Tuivasa-Sheck
• Jye Gray

These players are reportedly considering a move to the R360 competition. However, the intended bans will not take effect until after these players leave the NRL, allowing them to fulfill their commitments through 2026.

Commission’s Stance

ARLC Chair Peter V’landys emphasized the organization’s responsibility to maintain the integrity of the sport. He criticized the R360 competition, stating it exploits the hard work of established leagues without contributing to player development.

Impact of the Ban and Future Considerations

The NRL’s move comes after Rugby Australia announced similar consequences for players partaking in the R360 competition, affecting representation for the Wallabies and others.

Andrew Abdo, CEO of the NRL, reiterated that the league would not let unrecognized competitions undermine rugby league’s professionalism. He affirmed that exceptions to the ban would only occur in “exceptionally extenuating circumstances,” evaluated on a case-by-case basis.