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

Rugby league's administration has stated that players who enter the “rebel” R360 will be banned for 10 seasons.

The new league, scheduled to begin in 2026, is aiming to attract athletes from both codes with substantial agreements and a reduced fixture list.

Leading rugby league athletes have reportedly been approached by the breakaway group, which will involve six to eight men's teams and four women's teams operating from large metropolitan areas around the world.

Samoa's the rugby star, who plays for the Warriors in the league, has said he has had negotiations involving R360.

Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Gray are also believed to be considering joining the rebel league.

A group of rugby union teams, including Australia, last week declared a restriction on athletes signing with R360 appearing in test matches.

“We have consulted our franchises and we've responded strongly,” commented ARLC head V'Landys.

“Unfortunately, there will continually be entities that attempt to hijack our sport for economic benefit.

“They don't invest in pathways or the growth of players. They merely capitalize on the hard work of others, jeopardizing careers of monetary damage while gaining personally.

“In truth, they represent, counterfeiting a code.”

The organization is launched by retired international Mike Tindall and funded by commercial backers.

After the prospective rugby union sanctions were declared recently, it said: “We want to work together as integrated into the worldwide fixture list.

“The series is designed with tailored timetables for male and female sides and we will permit participants for international matches, as specified in their contracts.”

R360 will seek approval for its plans from rugby union's governing body, the sport's regulatory group, at its official gathering in 2026.