R360 League Recruits Hit With 10-Year Suspension from National Rugby League

Australian rugby league's authority has announced that athletes who join the “rebel” R360 league will be prohibited for a decade.

The new league, which plans to launch in October 2026, is seeking to lure rugby union and rugby league players with hefty contracts and a condensed playing schedule.

Leading NRL stars have reportedly received offers by the breakaway group, which will feature six to eight men's teams and women's teams based in major cities around the world.

The Samoan the player, who represents New Zealand Warriors in the competition, has confirmed he has had negotiations involving R360.

Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Jye Gray are also reported to be weighing up offers from R360.

Several leading union countries, such as Australia, last week imposed a prohibition on R360 recruits participating in test matches.

“We've listened to our franchises and we've taken firm action,” commented ARLC chief the official.

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

“They avoid funding in pathways or the advancement of players. They merely capitalize on the dedication of other organizations, jeopardizing careers of monetary damage while profiting themselves.

“They are, in reality, copying the game.”

The league is established by retired international Tindall and supported by independent financiers.

Following the prospective union sanctions were announced last week, it said: “We want to work together as integrated into the international rugby schedule.

“The series is arranged with customized calendars for both genders and R360 will allow all athletes for international matches, as written into their contracts.”

R360 will apply for endorsement for its proposals from the international authority, union's administrative organization, at its board session next year.