R360 League Athletes Subject to 10-Season Suspension from National Rugby League

Australian rugby league's governing body has stated that athletes who enter the “counterfeit” R360 will be prohibited for 10 seasons.

The proposed competition, which plans to launch in October 2026, is aiming to attract players from union and league with substantial agreements and a slimmed-down playing schedule.

Top National Rugby League players have reportedly been approached by the breakaway group, which will involve six or eight men's sides and four women's sides located in large metropolitan areas globally.

Samoa's Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who plays for the Warriors in the competition, has confirmed he has had negotiations involving the new organization.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Gray are also believed to be weighing up offers from R360.

A group of union countries, including Australia, recently announced a prohibition on players joining R360 appearing in test matches.

“We have consulted our clubs and we've acted decisively,” commented ARLC chief Peter V'Landys.

“Sadly, there will always be organizations that attempt to hijack our game for economic benefit.

“They don't invest in talent pipelines or the advancement of talent. They only leverage the efforts of other organizations, endangering athletes of monetary damage while gaining personally.

“Essentially, they are, copying the game.”

The organization is co-founded by retired international Mike Tindall and funded by private investors.

Subsequent to the possible rugby union sanctions were revealed recently, it commented: “We want to work collaboratively as integrated into the international rugby schedule.

“The competition is designed with tailored timetables for men's and women's teams and R360 will allow all athletes for global fixtures, as included in their agreements.”

The breakaway group will apply for endorsement for its proposals from World Rugby, the sport's regulatory group, at its council meeting next year.