R360 League Recruits Face Decade-Long Suspension from NRL

Australian rugby league's authority has stated that players who sign with the “rebel” R360 will be banned for a decade.

The new league, set to start in 2026, is aiming to attract rugby union and rugby league players with lucrative deals and a condensed playing schedule.

Top NRL stars have allegedly been contacted by the breakaway group, which will involve multiple men's clubs and four women's sides based in major cities globally.

Representing Samoa the rugby star, who plays for his NRL club in the league, has said he has had discussions with the new organization.

Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Payne Haas and Jye Gray are also believed to be considering joining the rebel league.

Eight major union nations, including Australia, last week declared a restriction on players joining R360 participating in international matches.

“We heard our clubs and we've taken firm action,” commented Australian Rugby League Commission chairman V'Landys.

“Regrettably, there will persistently exist organizations that seek to pirate our sport for economic benefit.

“They avoid funding in talent pipelines or the development of talent. They only leverage the hard work of existing bodies, endangering athletes of monetary damage while benefiting financially.

“In truth, they represent, copying the game.”

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

Following the prospective union bans were revealed earlier, it said: “We want to work together as part of the international rugby schedule.

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

The breakaway group will apply for endorsement for its initiatives from World Rugby, the sport's administrative organization, at its official gathering in the coming year.