R360 Competition Players Subject to 10-Season Ban from Australia's Rugby League

Australian rugby league's administration has declared that participants who join the “breakaway” R360 league will be prohibited for 10 seasons.

R360, which plans to launch in late 2026, is seeking to lure players from union and league with hefty contracts and a condensed playing schedule.

Top NRL athletes have reportedly been approached by R360, which will include six or eight men's clubs and four women's teams located in key urban centers around the world.

Samoa's the player, who is with his NRL club in the NRL, has said he has had negotiations involving the breakaway league.

Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Haas and Jye Gray are also reported to be considering joining the new competition.

Eight major union nations, such as Australia, last week declared a restriction on R360 recruits participating in test matches.

“We have consulted our clubs and we've acted decisively,” commented the league's chief the official.

“Regrettably, there will continually be organizations that try to exploit our game for economic benefit.

“They avoid funding in pathways or the advancement of players. They only leverage the dedication of others, putting players at risk of monetary damage while profiting themselves.

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

The organization is launched by retired international Mike Tindall and supported by independent financiers.

Following the prospective rugby union prohibitions were declared last week, it commented: “We seek to cooperate collaboratively as part of the global rugby calendar.

“The event is designed with tailored timetables for both genders and R360 will allow all athletes for test matches, as specified in their agreements.”

R360 will seek approval for its plans from the international authority, rugby union's regulatory group, at its council meeting in 2026.