R360 Competition Recruits Subject to 10-Year Suspension from Australia's Rugby League

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

The proposed competition, scheduled to begin in 2026, is aiming to attract athletes from both codes with substantial agreements and a reduced game calendar.

Prominent rugby league athletes have reportedly received offers by R360, which will include multiple men's teams and women's teams operating from key urban centers worldwide.

Samoa's Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who represents his NRL club in the NRL, has said he has had negotiations involving the new organization.

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

A group of rugby union countries, including Australia, last week imposed a prohibition on R360 recruits appearing in test matches.

“We've listened to our franchises and we've acted decisively,” said the league's head the official.

“Unfortunately, there will persistently exist organizations that attempt to hijack our sport for potential financial gain.

“They fail to contribute in talent pipelines or the growth of talent. They only leverage the dedication of other organizations, putting players at risk of monetary damage while benefiting financially.

“They are, in reality, imitating the sport.”

The organization is co-founded by retired international Mike Tindall and supported by private investors.

After the possible rugby union prohibitions were announced earlier, it stated: “We seek to cooperate in partnership as part of the worldwide fixture list.

“The event is designed with bespoke schedules for both genders and R360 will allow all athletes for test matches, as included in their contracts.”

The breakaway group will seek approval for its proposals from World Rugby, the sport's administrative organization, at its official gathering in the coming year.