R360 Recruits Face Decade-Long Suspension from Australia's Rugby League

Australian rugby league's authority has stated that athletes who sign with the “rebel” R360 competition will be banned for a decade.

The new league, scheduled to begin in 2026, is seeking to lure rugby union and rugby league players with substantial agreements and a condensed playing schedule.

Prominent NRL stars have reportedly been approached by R360, which will include multiple men's clubs and four women's sides based in large metropolitan areas globally.

Representing Samoa Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who is with the Warriors in the league, has said he has had negotiations involving the new organization.

Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Jye Gray are also reported to be thinking about signing the new competition.

Eight major rugby union countries, among them Australia, earlier imposed a ban on players joining R360 participating in test matches.

“We've listened to our franchises and we've acted decisively,” commented Australian Rugby League Commission chairman Peter V'Landys.

“Sadly, there will persistently exist groups that try to exploit our sport for potential financial gain.

“They fail to contribute in pathways or the advancement of athletes. They simply exploit the dedication of existing bodies, endangering athletes of financial loss while benefiting financially.

“Essentially, they are, counterfeiting a code.”

The league is co-founded by retired international Mike Tindall and funded by commercial backers.

After the prospective union prohibitions were declared last week, it stated: “We aim to collaborate together as part of the global rugby calendar.

“The competition is arranged with bespoke schedules for male and female sides and R360 will permit participants for international matches, as written into their deals.”

The breakaway group will apply for endorsement for its initiatives from rugby union's governing body, the sport's administrative organization, at its board session in the coming year.