R360 League Players Subject to 10-Season Suspension from NRL

Australian rugby league's authority has stated that participants who join the “breakaway” R360 competition will be banned for 10 seasons.

The new league, set to start in October 2026, is aiming to attract athletes from both codes with substantial agreements and a reduced playing schedule.

Leading National Rugby League stars have reportedly received offers by R360, which will include six to eight men's teams and four women's sides located in major cities globally.

Samoa's the player, who is with New Zealand Warriors in the NRL, has confirmed he has had negotiations involving R360.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Haas and Jye Gray are also believed to be thinking about signing the new competition.

A group of union countries, including Australia, recently declared a ban on R360 recruits appearing in test matches.

“We have consulted our teams and we've taken firm action,” commented the league's chairman Peter V'Landys.

“Unfortunately, there will continually be organizations that try to exploit our code for potential financial gain.

“They fail to contribute in development systems or the growth of talent. They simply exploit the hard work of other organizations, endangering athletes of economic hardship while profiting themselves.

“Essentially, they are, copying the game.”

R360 is launched by ex-England star Tindall and supported by commercial backers.

Subsequent to the prospective union bans were revealed earlier, it commented: “We aim to collaborate together as part of the worldwide fixture list.

“The series is designed with customized calendars for both genders and we will permit participants for international matches, as included in their agreements.”

The new league will seek approval for its initiatives from the international authority, rugby union's regulatory group, at its official gathering next year.