R360 League Athletes Subject to Decade-Long Ban from National Rugby League

Australian rugby league's authority has declared that athletes who join the “rebel” R360 will be prohibited for 10 years.

The new league, which plans to launch in late 2026, is hoping to draw athletes from both codes with hefty contracts and a condensed playing schedule.

Leading rugby league athletes have reportedly received offers by the breakaway group, which will involve six or eight men's sides and four women's sides operating from major cities worldwide.

The Samoan the player, who represents the Warriors in the NRL, has stated he has had negotiations involving R360.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Haas and Jye Gray are also believed to be considering joining the rebel league.

A group of union nations, among them Australia, last week imposed a prohibition on players joining R360 appearing in test matches.

“We heard our franchises and we've responded strongly,” said Australian Rugby League Commission chairman V'Landys.

“Sadly, there will persistently exist groups that attempt to hijack our game for monetary profit.

“They fail to contribute in talent pipelines or the advancement of talent. They only leverage the efforts of existing bodies, endangering athletes of monetary damage while benefiting financially.

“In truth, they represent, copying the game.”

The organization is established by former England World Cup winner Mike Tindall and supported by commercial backers.

Following the prospective union bans were announced last week, it stated: “We aim to collaborate collaboratively as integrated into the international rugby schedule.

“The series is structured with tailored timetables for both genders and the organization will allow all athletes for global fixtures, as included in their deals.”

The new league will request authorization for its proposals from World Rugby, the sport's governing body, at its board session in the coming year.