R360 League Athletes Face 10-Year Suspension from Australia's Rugby League

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

The new league, which plans to launch in October 2026, is aiming to attract athletes from both codes with lucrative deals and a condensed game calendar.

Leading NRL players have allegedly been contacted by the new league, which will feature multiple men's teams and women's teams located in major cities worldwide.

Representing Samoa Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who is with his NRL club in the league, has said he has had discussions with the new organization.

Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Jye Gray are also believed to be considering joining the new competition.

Several leading rugby union teams, such as Australia, last week announced a prohibition on athletes signing with R360 participating in international matches.

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

“Unfortunately, there will always be entities that attempt to hijack our sport for monetary profit.

“They avoid funding in pathways or the development of players. They simply exploit the hard work of existing bodies, endangering athletes of economic hardship while benefiting financially.

“Essentially, they are, imitating the sport.”

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

Following the prospective rugby union bans were declared earlier, it stated: “We seek to cooperate collaboratively as a component of the global rugby calendar.

“The series is structured with customized calendars for men's and women's teams and we will release all players for test matches, as included in their deals.”

The breakaway group will request authorization for its proposals from World Rugby, the sport's governing body, at its board session in 2026.