R360 Competition Athletes Hit With 10-Season Suspension from National Rugby League

Australian rugby league's administration has announced that athletes who sign with the “rebel” R360 competition will be prohibited for 10 years.

R360, scheduled to begin in late 2026, is aiming to attract rugby union and rugby league players with substantial agreements and a slimmed-down playing schedule.

Leading National Rugby League stars have reportedly been approached by the new league, which will involve multiple men's clubs and four women's sides located in key urban centers worldwide.

Samoa's the rugby star, who is with his NRL club in the competition, has said he has had discussions with the breakaway league.

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

Eight major rugby union countries, including Australia, last week announced a restriction on athletes signing with R360 playing international matches.

“We heard our clubs and we've acted decisively,” commented ARLC chairman Peter V'Landys.

“Unfortunately, there will always be groups that attempt to hijack our game for economic benefit.

“They avoid funding in talent pipelines or the development of talent. They merely capitalize on the dedication of others, jeopardizing careers of economic hardship while gaining personally.

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

The organization is launched by ex-England star Tindall and supported by independent financiers.

Subsequent to the possible union sanctions were declared last week, it said: “We aim to collaborate collaboratively as part of the international rugby schedule.

“The event is arranged with bespoke schedules for both genders and we will release all players for test matches, as written into their agreements.”

The breakaway group will apply for endorsement for its plans from World Rugby, rugby union's governing body, at its board session in 2026.