R360 Competition Recruits Hit With 10-Year Suspension from Australia's Rugby League

Australian rugby league's administration has stated that players who enter the “breakaway” R360 league will be barred for 10 years.

R360, scheduled to begin in October 2026, is aiming to attract players from union and league with substantial agreements and a slimmed-down fixture list.

Prominent NRL players have reportedly been approached by the new league, which will involve six to eight men's clubs and four women's teams based in key urban centers worldwide.

Samoa's the rugby star, who represents his NRL club in the NRL, has confirmed he has had negotiations involving the new organization.

Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Payne Haas and Gray are also reported to be considering joining the rebel league.

Eight major rugby union teams, such as Australia, last week declared a restriction on R360 recruits playing global fixtures.

“We've listened to our teams and we've responded strongly,” commented Australian Rugby League Commission chairman Peter V'Landys.

“Regrettably, there will always be groups that try to exploit our game for monetary profit.

“They don't invest in pathways or the advancement of players. They merely capitalize on the hard work of existing bodies, putting players at risk of financial loss while benefiting financially.

“Essentially, they are, imitating the sport.”

The organization is launched by ex-England star Mike Tindall and backed by private investors.

Following the prospective union sanctions were declared recently, it commented: “We seek to cooperate in partnership as integrated into the worldwide fixture list.

“The series is arranged with tailored timetables for both genders and the organization will release all players for international matches, as written into their contracts.”

R360 will request authorization for its initiatives from rugby union's governing body, rugby union's administrative organization, at its official gathering next year.