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

The NRL's authority has declared that players who join the “breakaway” R360 competition will be prohibited for 10 seasons.

R360, which plans to launch in October 2026, is hoping to draw athletes from both codes with hefty contracts and a reduced playing schedule.

Top National Rugby League players have reportedly received offers by the new league, which will include six to eight men's sides and four women's teams based in key urban centers globally.

The Samoan Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who represents New Zealand Warriors in the NRL, has said he has had talks with R360.

Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Haas and Jye Gray are also reported to be weighing up offers from the new competition.

Eight major rugby union nations, such as Australia, earlier imposed a restriction on R360 recruits playing test matches.

“We have consulted our franchises and we've responded strongly,” stated the league's chairman the official.

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

“They don't invest in talent pipelines or the growth of players. They merely capitalize on the efforts of others, putting players at risk of monetary damage while benefiting financially.

“Essentially, they are, counterfeiting a code.”

The organization is launched by ex-England star Tindall and backed by independent financiers.

Subsequent to the potential union bans were announced recently, it said: “We aim to collaborate together as a component of the global rugby calendar.

“The series is structured with tailored timetables for men's and women's teams and the organization will release all players for international matches, as written into their deals.”

The breakaway group will apply for endorsement for its initiatives from World Rugby, rugby union's administrative organization, at its council meeting in 2026.