R360 League Recruits Face 10-Year Ban from National Rugby League

Australian rugby league's authority has stated that players who enter the “breakaway” R360 competition will be prohibited for a decade.

The proposed competition, which plans to launch in October 2026, is hoping to draw athletes from both codes with substantial agreements and a slimmed-down fixture list.

Top rugby league players have allegedly been contacted by the breakaway group, which will involve six to eight men's teams and four women's sides operating from major cities around the world.

Representing Samoa the rugby star, who represents New Zealand Warriors in the league, has said he has had talks with the new organization.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Haas and Gray are also believed to be considering joining R360.

A group of union teams, among them Australia, earlier declared a ban on R360 recruits appearing in international matches.

“We've listened to our teams and we've responded strongly,” stated Australian Rugby League Commission chief the official.

“Regrettably, there will always be organizations that seek to pirate our sport for monetary profit.

“They avoid funding in development systems or the growth of players. They simply exploit the dedication of others, putting players at risk of monetary damage while profiting themselves.

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

R360 is launched by retired international Tindall and funded by commercial backers.

Following the prospective rugby union bans were declared last week, it said: “We aim to collaborate collaboratively as integrated into the worldwide fixture list.

“The series is structured with bespoke schedules for male and female sides and R360 will release all players for international matches, as specified in their agreements.”

The new league will apply for endorsement for its proposals from the international authority, union's administrative organization, at its official gathering in 2026.