R360 Athletes Face 10-Season Suspension from National Rugby League

Rugby league's administration has declared that athletes who sign with the “counterfeit” R360 will be banned for 10 years.

The proposed competition, scheduled to begin in October 2026, is aiming to attract players from union and league with hefty contracts and a slimmed-down game calendar.

Prominent National Rugby League stars have allegedly been contacted by the breakaway group, which will include six or eight men's sides and four women's teams operating from large metropolitan areas globally.

Samoa's the player, who represents the Warriors in the NRL, has stated he has had discussions with the breakaway league.

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

Eight major union teams, including Australia, last week imposed a prohibition on players joining R360 participating in global fixtures.

“We have consulted our teams and we've taken firm action,” commented Australian Rugby League Commission head the official.

“Sadly, there will persistently exist entities that attempt to hijack our code for economic benefit.

“They avoid funding in talent pipelines or the development of players. They merely capitalize on the dedication of other organizations, endangering athletes of financial loss while profiting themselves.

“They are, in reality, imitating the sport.”

R360 is co-founded by former England World Cup winner Tindall and supported by private investors.

Following the potential rugby union sanctions were declared earlier, it stated: “We aim to collaborate in partnership as a component of the global rugby calendar.

“The competition is designed with customized calendars for male and female sides and the organization will permit participants for international matches, as specified in their contracts.”

The breakaway group will seek approval for its proposals from World Rugby, union's regulatory group, at its board session in the coming year.