R360 League Athletes Hit With Decade-Long Suspension from Australia's Rugby League

Rugby league's governing body has announced that athletes who join the “breakaway” R360 competition will be banned for a decade.

R360, set to start in late 2026, is hoping to draw players from union and league with lucrative deals and a slimmed-down fixture list.

Leading NRL stars have reportedly received offers by the new league, which will involve multiple men's sides and four women's teams based in key urban centers worldwide.

The Samoan the rugby star, who is with his NRL club in the league, has stated he has had discussions with the new organization.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Jye Gray are also reported to be thinking about signing the rebel league.

A group of rugby union countries, among them Australia, recently declared a ban on R360 recruits appearing in global fixtures.

“We heard our teams and we've acted decisively,” said Australian Rugby League Commission chairman Peter V'Landys.

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

“They don't invest in development systems or the growth of players. They simply exploit the dedication of existing bodies, putting players at risk of financial loss while benefiting financially.

“Essentially, they are, imitating the sport.”

The organization is established by ex-England star Tindall and backed by private investors.

Subsequent to the possible rugby union sanctions were announced recently, it stated: “We aim to collaborate together as integrated into the international rugby schedule.

“The competition is arranged with bespoke schedules for both genders and R360 will permit participants for global fixtures, as included in their agreements.”

The breakaway group will apply for endorsement for its proposals from World Rugby, rugby union's regulatory group, at its official gathering next year.