R360 League Athletes Subject to 10-Season Suspension from NRL

Rugby league's authority has stated that athletes who join the “rebel” R360 competition will be prohibited for a decade.

The new league, which plans to launch in October 2026, is hoping to draw players from union and league with substantial agreements and a reduced fixture list.

Prominent rugby league stars have reportedly received offers by the new league, which will include six to eight men's teams and women's teams based in major cities around the world.

Samoa's Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who is with New Zealand Warriors in the league, has confirmed he has had discussions with the new organization.

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

Several leading rugby union teams, among them Australia, last week announced a restriction on R360 recruits playing test matches.

“We've listened to our franchises and we've responded strongly,” stated Australian Rugby League Commission chairman Peter V'Landys.

“Sadly, there will persistently exist groups that seek to pirate our sport for monetary profit.

“They don't invest in talent pipelines or the growth of players. They merely capitalize on the hard work of other organizations, jeopardizing careers of monetary damage while benefiting financially.

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

The league is established by retired international Tindall and supported by private investors.

After the prospective rugby union prohibitions were announced last week, it commented: “We seek to cooperate together as part of the worldwide fixture list.

“The competition is arranged with tailored timetables for male and female sides and we will allow all athletes for test matches, as written into their deals.”

R360 will apply for endorsement for its plans from rugby union's governing body, rugby union's administrative organization, at its board session next year.