R360 League Athletes Subject to 10-Year Suspension from National Rugby League

The NRL's administration has stated that athletes who enter the “breakaway” R360 league will be prohibited for 10 years.

The proposed competition, scheduled to begin in late 2026, is hoping to draw rugby union and rugby league players with hefty contracts and a condensed game calendar.

Prominent National Rugby League athletes have allegedly been contacted by the new league, which will feature six to eight men's clubs and four women's teams located in major cities globally.

Representing Samoa the player, who is with the Warriors in the NRL, has stated he has had discussions with the breakaway league.

Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Haas and Gray are also reported to be considering joining R360.

Eight major union nations, among them Australia, earlier declared a ban on R360 recruits appearing in global fixtures.

“We have consulted our teams and we've taken firm action,” said the league's chairman the official.

“Regrettably, there will persistently exist entities that attempt to hijack our code for economic benefit.

“They fail to contribute in development systems or the growth of athletes. They simply exploit the dedication of other organizations, endangering athletes of economic hardship while gaining personally.

“Essentially, they are, counterfeiting a code.”

The league is launched by ex-England star Tindall and funded by private investors.

After the potential rugby union bans were announced earlier, it said: “We aim to collaborate together as integrated into the international rugby schedule.

“The event is arranged with bespoke schedules for both genders and the organization will allow all athletes for global fixtures, as specified in their deals.”

The breakaway group will apply for endorsement for its initiatives from the international authority, rugby union's governing body, at its board session next year.