R360 League Players Face 10-Season Ban from National Rugby League

Rugby league's authority has stated that athletes who join the “breakaway” R360 will be banned for 10 years.

The new league, which plans to launch in October 2026, is seeking to lure athletes from both codes with substantial agreements and a condensed playing schedule.

Leading National Rugby League stars have allegedly been contacted by R360, which will include six or eight men's sides and four women's sides located in large metropolitan areas globally.

Samoa's Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who is with his NRL club in the league, has confirmed he has had talks with R360.

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

Eight major rugby union teams, among them Australia, last week imposed a ban on R360 recruits appearing in test matches.

“We've listened to our clubs and we've acted decisively,” said Australian Rugby League Commission chairman Peter V'Landys.

“Sadly, there will continually be entities that try to exploit our game for monetary profit.

“They fail to contribute in pathways or the growth of talent. They only leverage the dedication of others, putting players at risk of financial loss while benefiting financially.

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

The league is launched by ex-England star Tindall and backed by private investors.

Following the prospective union bans were announced recently, it commented: “We want to work in partnership as part of the worldwide fixture list.

“The series is designed with tailored timetables for men's and women's teams and R360 will permit participants for global fixtures, as specified in their agreements.”

R360 will apply for endorsement for its plans from rugby union's governing body, union's administrative organization, at its official gathering next year.