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

Rugby league's governing body has announced that athletes who enter the “breakaway” R360 competition will be banned for 10 years.

The proposed competition, which plans to launch in October 2026, is seeking to lure athletes from both codes with lucrative deals and a condensed game calendar.

Prominent National Rugby League athletes have allegedly been contacted by R360, which will feature six to eight men's sides and women's teams operating from large metropolitan areas globally.

The Samoan the rugby star, who represents the Warriors in the competition, has stated he has had discussions with R360.

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

Eight major union countries, among them Australia, last week declared a ban on athletes signing with R360 participating in international matches.

“We've listened to our franchises and we've acted decisively,” commented the league's chairman the official.

“Regrettably, there will continually be groups that seek to pirate our code for economic benefit.

“They don't invest in development systems or the growth of talent. They simply exploit the dedication of other organizations, putting players at risk of monetary damage while profiting themselves.

“Essentially, they are, imitating the sport.”

The organization is launched by ex-England star Mike Tindall and funded by independent financiers.

Subsequent to the potential union bans were announced recently, it stated: “We aim to collaborate in partnership as a component of the international rugby schedule.

“The series is structured with bespoke schedules for both genders and R360 will release all players for global fixtures, as written into their contracts.”

The breakaway group will seek approval for its plans from rugby union's governing body, rugby union's regulatory group, at its official gathering next year.