R360 Competition Recruits Subject to 10-Year Suspension from National Rugby League

Australian rugby league's governing body has stated that athletes who enter the “breakaway” R360 competition will be barred for 10 seasons.

The proposed competition, scheduled to begin in October 2026, is hoping to draw athletes from both codes with hefty contracts and a reduced game calendar.

Prominent National Rugby League stars have allegedly been contacted by the new league, which will include six to eight men's clubs and four women's teams based in key urban centers worldwide.

The Samoan the rugby star, who represents New Zealand Warriors in the league, has confirmed he has had negotiations involving the breakaway league.

Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Gray are also said to be weighing up offers from R360.

Several leading union countries, including Australia, last week declared a prohibition on R360 recruits appearing in international matches.

“We have consulted our clubs and we've taken firm action,” said the league's chairman Peter V'Landys.

“Regrettably, there will continually be groups that attempt to hijack our sport for economic benefit.

“They don't invest in development systems or the development of athletes. They merely capitalize on the efforts of existing bodies, putting players at risk of economic hardship while gaining personally.

“They are, in reality, counterfeiting a code.”

R360 is co-founded by retired international Mike Tindall and funded by commercial backers.

Subsequent to the potential union prohibitions were announced recently, it commented: “We aim to collaborate collaboratively as integrated into the international rugby schedule.

“The competition is arranged with customized calendars for male and female sides and we will release all players for international matches, as specified in their deals.”

R360 will request authorization for its proposals from rugby union's governing body, the sport's administrative organization, at its council meeting next year.