LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
R360 chief Mike Tindall has dismissed accusations that the emerging league sought to lure high-profile NRL players, asserting instead that it was undercompensated athletes who approached them about joining the new competition.
The breakaway rugby union league had initially planned to commence later this year but postponed its launch, leaving players like Zac Lomax in uncertain situations after they had sought releases from their current clubs.
Tindall refuted claims that R360 had actively pursued league talent, stating that it was the agents who were "banging down the door" as the league's appeal gained momentum.
"We didn't target anyone," Tindall told The Australian. "Players and their agents approached us."
In response to the emergence of R360, the NRL took drastic measures, instituting 10-year bans for any player who signed with the new league. ARLC chairman Peter V'landys asserted that the new competition was not a viable option.
R360 is now aiming for a 2028 launch, with Tindall expressing optimism that the league will continue to draw top-tier talent and ultimately thrive, despite the considerable opposition from rugby league authorities.