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

Australian rugby league's authority has declared that players who join the “breakaway” R360 will be prohibited for 10 seasons.

The new league, set to start in late 2026, is seeking to lure athletes from both codes with hefty contracts and a reduced fixture list.

Prominent rugby league stars have allegedly been contacted by the new league, which will feature six to eight men's sides and women's teams operating from key urban centers around the world.

The Samoan Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who plays for the Warriors in the league, has said he has had negotiations involving the new organization.

Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Gray are also believed to be thinking about signing R360.

Eight major union countries, including Australia, last week declared a restriction on R360 recruits playing international matches.

“We've listened to our clubs and we've responded strongly,” said ARLC chief the official.

“Regrettably, there will persistently exist entities that seek to pirate our code for monetary profit.

“They fail to contribute in talent pipelines or the growth of talent. They only leverage the dedication of others, jeopardizing careers of financial loss while gaining personally.

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

The organization is co-founded by ex-England star Mike Tindall and backed by private investors.

Subsequent to the possible rugby union prohibitions were declared recently, it said: “We want to work collaboratively as a component of the global rugby calendar.

“The event is arranged with customized calendars for both genders and the organization will allow all athletes for international matches, as included in their agreements.”

The new league will seek approval for its initiatives from World Rugby, rugby union's administrative organization, at its council meeting in 2026.