R360 Recruits Hit With 10-Year Suspension from Australia's Rugby League

Australian rugby league's governing body has declared that participants who join the “rebel” R360 competition will be banned 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.

Leading rugby league stars have reportedly been approached by the new league, which will include six to eight men's teams and women's teams located in major cities worldwide.

Samoa's the player, who represents the Warriors in the NRL, has said he has had discussions with the new organization.

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

Eight major union nations, including Australia, last week declared a ban on players joining R360 appearing in test matches.

“We've listened to our teams and we've responded strongly,” stated ARLC head Peter V'Landys.

“Sadly, there will persistently exist groups that seek to pirate our game for potential financial gain.

“They fail to contribute in development systems or the advancement of players. They merely capitalize on the hard work of others, putting players at risk of monetary damage while profiting themselves.

“Essentially, they are, copying the game.”

The league is co-founded by retired international Mike Tindall and backed by private investors.

Subsequent to the potential rugby union sanctions were declared recently, it stated: “We aim to collaborate collaboratively as part of the worldwide fixture list.

“The competition is structured with customized calendars for men's and women's teams and R360 will allow all athletes for test matches, as included in their agreements.”

The breakaway group will apply for endorsement for its plans from rugby union's governing body, rugby union's regulatory group, at its council meeting in the coming year.