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

Rugby league's administration has stated that athletes who enter the “breakaway” R360 will be prohibited for 10 years.

The new league, which plans to launch in late 2026, is aiming to attract players from union and league with lucrative deals and a slimmed-down game calendar.

Top National Rugby League players have reportedly received offers by the breakaway group, which will feature six or eight men's teams and four women's teams based in large metropolitan areas around the world.

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

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Payne Haas and Gray are also believed to be considering joining R360.

Eight major union teams, among them Australia, last week declared a ban on athletes signing with R360 playing global fixtures.

“We have consulted our franchises and we've taken firm action,” stated the league's chief Peter V'Landys.

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

“They avoid funding in development systems or the growth of athletes. They only leverage the hard work of existing bodies, endangering athletes of monetary damage while profiting themselves.

“They are, in reality, imitating the sport.”

The league is co-founded by ex-England star Mike Tindall and supported by private investors.

After the potential union prohibitions were revealed recently, it stated: “We want to work in partnership as integrated into the worldwide fixture list.

“The series is arranged with bespoke schedules for men's and women's teams and the organization will permit participants for international matches, as included in their contracts.”

The new league will apply for endorsement for its proposals from World Rugby, the sport's regulatory group, at its official gathering in 2026.