R360 Athletes Face Decade-Long Suspension from Australia's Rugby League

Rugby league's authority has declared that players who sign with the “rebel” R360 league will be prohibited for a decade.

R360, scheduled to begin in October 2026, is aiming to attract rugby union and rugby league players with substantial agreements and a slimmed-down game calendar.

Leading NRL athletes have reportedly been approached by R360, which will feature multiple men's sides and four women's sides located in major cities globally.

The Samoan the player, who represents the Warriors in the NRL, has said he has had discussions with the new organization.

Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Haas and Jye Gray are also believed to be thinking about signing R360.

A group of union countries, among them Australia, recently declared a restriction on players joining R360 playing international matches.

“We've listened to our franchises and we've taken firm action,” stated ARLC chief Peter V'Landys.

“Sadly, there will persistently exist groups that attempt to hijack our code for potential financial gain.

“They avoid funding in development systems or the growth of athletes. They simply exploit the efforts of existing bodies, endangering athletes of financial loss while benefiting financially.

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

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

Subsequent to the potential union prohibitions were revealed last week, it stated: “We want to work in partnership as part of the international rugby schedule.

“The competition is designed with customized calendars for male and female sides and the organization will release all players for test matches, as included in their contracts.”

The new league will apply for endorsement for its proposals from rugby union's governing body, the sport's governing body, at its official gathering next year.