R360 League Recruits Subject to 10-Year Exclusion from National Rugby League

Australian rugby league's administration has declared that athletes who enter the “rebel” R360 competition will be banned for 10 seasons.

The proposed competition, set to start in 2026, is aiming to attract athletes from both codes with hefty contracts and a slimmed-down game calendar.

Top rugby league athletes have reportedly been approached by the new league, which will feature six or eight men's sides and four women's teams based in major cities worldwide.

Representing Samoa the rugby star, who represents his NRL club in the competition, has confirmed he has had discussions with the breakaway league.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Gray are also said to be considering joining the rebel league.

Eight major union nations, including Australia, earlier imposed a restriction on players joining R360 participating in global fixtures.

“We heard our clubs and we've responded strongly,” stated Australian Rugby League Commission chief the official.

“Sadly, there will persistently exist organizations that try to exploit our sport for potential financial gain.

“They fail to contribute in pathways or the growth of athletes. They merely capitalize on the hard work of others, endangering athletes of monetary damage while gaining personally.

“They are, in reality, copying the game.”

The organization is co-founded by former England World Cup winner Mike Tindall and funded by private investors.

Following the potential rugby union sanctions were declared last week, it said: “We aim to collaborate in partnership as part of the global rugby calendar.

“The event is structured with bespoke schedules for men's and women's teams and we will release all players for global fixtures, as included in their agreements.”

The new league will request authorization for its plans from World Rugby, rugby union's regulatory group, at its board session in 2026.