R360 League Athletes Hit With 10-Year Ban 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 seasons.

The new league, which plans to launch in October 2026, is aiming to attract rugby union and rugby league players with hefty contracts and a reduced fixture list.

Prominent National Rugby League stars have reportedly received offers by R360, which will include multiple men's sides and women's teams located in key urban centers globally.

Representing Samoa the player, who represents his NRL club in the NRL, has stated he has had negotiations involving the new organization.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Payne Haas and Gray are also believed to be weighing up offers from the rebel league.

Eight major union nations, such as Australia, last week imposed a restriction on R360 recruits playing test matches.

“We have consulted our franchises and we've responded strongly,” stated Australian Rugby League Commission head Peter V'Landys.

“Regrettably, there will continually be groups that attempt to hijack our game for potential financial gain.

“They don't invest in pathways or the growth of talent. They only leverage the dedication of existing bodies, putting players at risk of monetary damage while benefiting financially.

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

The organization is established by former England World Cup winner Mike Tindall and funded by commercial backers.

Following the prospective union bans were revealed last week, it stated: “We aim to collaborate together as a component of the international rugby schedule.

“The event is designed with bespoke schedules for men's and women's teams and R360 will release all players for global fixtures, as specified in their contracts.”

The new league will apply for endorsement for its initiatives from rugby union's governing body, the sport's administrative organization, at its council meeting next year.