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

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

R360, set to start in October 2026, is aiming to attract rugby union and rugby league players with lucrative deals and a slimmed-down playing schedule.

Top rugby league stars have allegedly been contacted by the new league, which will involve multiple men's teams and women's teams operating from key urban centers worldwide.

The Samoan Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who is with New Zealand Warriors in the league, has stated he has had discussions with the new organization.

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

Eight major rugby union countries, including Australia, earlier announced a ban on R360 recruits playing global fixtures.

“We've listened to our teams and we've responded strongly,” commented Australian Rugby League Commission chief Peter V'Landys.

“Sadly, there will continually be entities that seek to pirate our code for monetary profit.

“They don't invest in pathways or the growth of athletes. They merely capitalize on the dedication of others, putting players at risk of economic hardship while benefiting financially.

“They are, in reality, counterfeiting a code.”

The organization is co-founded by former England World Cup winner Mike Tindall and funded by commercial backers.

Subsequent to the potential rugby union prohibitions were announced recently, it stated: “We aim to collaborate in partnership as a component of the worldwide fixture list.

“The event is designed with tailored timetables for male and female sides and R360 will allow all athletes for international matches, as included in their agreements.”

The breakaway group will seek approval for its proposals from World Rugby, the sport's governing body, at its council meeting next year.