R360 Athletes Subject to 10-Season Suspension from Australia's Rugby League

Rugby league's administration has declared that players who sign with the “counterfeit” R360 will be prohibited for 10 seasons.

The proposed competition, scheduled to begin in late 2026, is aiming to attract players from union and league with hefty contracts and a slimmed-down game calendar.

Leading rugby league athletes have reportedly been approached by the breakaway group, which will include multiple men's sides and four women's teams operating from major cities globally.

The Samoan the rugby star, who plays for the Warriors in the league, has stated he has had discussions with R360.

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

Several leading rugby union teams, including Australia, earlier imposed a restriction on athletes signing with R360 playing international matches.

“We heard our teams and we've taken firm action,” stated the league's head V'Landys.

“Unfortunately, there will continually be organizations that attempt to hijack our sport for potential financial gain.

“They don't invest in development systems or the growth of players. They simply exploit the dedication of existing bodies, jeopardizing careers of economic hardship while gaining personally.

“Essentially, they are, copying the game.”

The league is co-founded by retired international Mike Tindall and supported by private investors.

Subsequent to the possible union prohibitions were declared last week, it stated: “We want to work together as part of the worldwide fixture list.

“The competition is designed with customized calendars for both genders and R360 will allow all athletes for global fixtures, as included in their contracts.”

The breakaway group will seek approval for its plans from rugby union's governing body, the sport's governing body, at its official gathering next year.