R360 League Athletes Hit With Decade-Long Suspension from National Rugby League

Rugby league's governing body has stated that athletes who join the “rebel” R360 league will be prohibited for a decade.

The proposed competition, which plans to launch in late 2026, is hoping to draw rugby union and rugby league players with substantial agreements and a reduced fixture list.

Prominent NRL stars have allegedly been contacted by the new league, which will feature six to eight men's sides and four women's sides based in large metropolitan areas globally.

The Samoan the rugby star, who plays for the Warriors in the competition, has said he has had discussions with the breakaway league.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Haas and Gray are also said to be weighing up offers from R360.

Eight major union nations, such as Australia, last week declared a restriction on players joining R360 playing test matches.

“We have consulted our clubs and we've acted decisively,” said Australian Rugby League Commission chairman Peter V'Landys.

“Sadly, there will always be groups that attempt to hijack our sport for economic benefit.

“They fail to contribute in talent pipelines or the growth of athletes. They simply exploit the hard work of other organizations, putting players at risk of economic hardship while gaining personally.

“They are, in reality, copying the game.”

R360 is established by ex-England star Tindall and supported by commercial backers.

Subsequent to the possible union sanctions were revealed earlier, it stated: “We seek to cooperate in partnership as part of the international rugby schedule.

“The series is arranged with bespoke schedules for male and female sides and we will allow all athletes for test matches, as specified in their agreements.”

The new league will request authorization for its plans from World Rugby, union's administrative organization, at its official gathering next year.