R360 organisers have fired back at the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC), describing the governing body’s threats of 10-year bans for players who join the breakaway competition as “sadly” predictable.
ARLC chairman Peter V’landys on Wednesday accused R360 officials of counterfeiting the code, vowing to suspend any player managers involved as well.
The proposed sanctions would prevent participation in the NRL or any ARLC-affiliated competition.
R360 co-chief executive Mark Spoors said the new venture aimed to create “fresh opportunities” for players.
MORE: ARLC announces monster suspensions for defecting players amid R360 threat
“Recent announcements, sadly, have been anticipated,” Spoors told AAP in a statement.
“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.
“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.
“That will include details of the exciting male and female playing talent who will participate in R360 when we kick off in October 2026.”
Several NRL stars including Ryan Papenhuyzen, Cameron Munster, Payne Haas and Roger Tuivasa-Sheck have been linked to potential moves to R360.
The competition is set to launch in late 2026, following a global, F1-style circuit with rounds in Cape Town, Tokyo and Dubai.
“The Commission has a clear duty to act in the best interests of rugby league and its fans,” V’landys said in a strongly worded statement.
“We will take all necessary steps to protect the future of the game.”
The ARLC’s firm response comes after a meeting with all 17 NRL clubs last week, where club representatives urged the Commission to take action against any players or agents who defect.
The ARLC’s stance follows legal consultation and mirrors Rugby Australia’s warning that any players who join R360 will be barred from representing the Wallabies, Wallaroos or Australia at the Olympics.