R360 Competition Athletes Subject to Decade-Long Suspension from Australia's Rugby League

Australian rugby league's governing body has announced that players who sign with the “rebel” R360 league will be prohibited for 10 seasons.

R360, which plans to launch in 2026, is aiming to attract athletes from both codes with hefty contracts and a condensed game calendar.

Leading NRL athletes have reportedly been approached by the new league, which will include six to eight men's clubs and women's teams operating from key urban centers globally.

The Samoan the player, who represents the Warriors in the league, has said he has had discussions with the new organization.

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

Eight major rugby union teams, among them Australia, last week announced a ban on players joining R360 playing global fixtures.

“We heard our franchises and we've acted decisively,” said Australian Rugby League Commission chief the official.

“Sadly, there will persistently exist organizations that seek to pirate our sport for potential financial gain.

“They avoid funding in development systems or the growth of talent. They simply exploit the hard work of others, jeopardizing careers of monetary damage while profiting themselves.

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

R360 is established by former England World Cup winner Tindall and supported by independent financiers.

Following the possible union bans were revealed earlier, it commented: “We want to work in partnership as integrated into the global rugby calendar.

“The competition is arranged with tailored timetables for male and female sides and R360 will permit participants for test matches, as included in their contracts.”

The new league will request authorization for its plans from rugby union's governing body, rugby union's administrative organization, at its board session next year.