R360 League Players Hit With Decade-Long Ban from Australia's Rugby League

Rugby league's authority has declared that athletes who enter the “breakaway” R360 will be prohibited for 10 seasons.

The new league, scheduled to begin in late 2026, is aiming to attract athletes from both codes with substantial agreements and a slimmed-down playing schedule.

Leading NRL athletes have reportedly been approached by the new league, which will feature multiple men's teams and four women's sides based in key urban centers worldwide.

The Samoan the player, who represents the Warriors in the competition, has stated he has had negotiations involving the breakaway league.

Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Payne Haas and Gray are also reported to be considering joining R360.

Eight major union teams, among them Australia, last week announced a ban on athletes signing with R360 playing international matches.

“We have consulted our franchises and we've acted decisively,” stated ARLC head V'Landys.

“Regrettably, there will continually be organizations that try to exploit our sport for economic benefit.

“They fail to contribute in talent pipelines or the growth of athletes. They only leverage the dedication of existing bodies, jeopardizing careers of economic hardship while profiting themselves.

“Essentially, they are, imitating the sport.”

The organization is launched by retired international Mike Tindall and funded by independent financiers.

After the possible rugby union bans were declared earlier, it commented: “We want to work together as part of the global rugby calendar.

“The competition is designed with tailored timetables for men's and women's teams and R360 will permit participants for international matches, as specified in their contracts.”

The breakaway group will seek approval for its initiatives from the international authority, the sport's governing body, at its official gathering in 2026.