R360 Competition Athletes Subject to Decade-Long Suspension from Australia's Rugby League

The NRL's administration has stated that players who sign with the “breakaway” R360 league will be barred for 10 years.

The new league, set to start in October 2026, is seeking to lure athletes from both codes with hefty contracts and a slimmed-down game calendar.

Leading NRL players have reportedly received offers by the breakaway group, which will feature six or eight men's teams and four women's sides located in major cities around the world.

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

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

Several leading union teams, such as Australia, earlier declared a restriction on R360 recruits participating in test matches.

“We have consulted our teams and we've acted decisively,” said ARLC chairman the official.

“Regrettably, there will persistently exist groups that attempt to hijack our sport for potential financial gain.

“They don't invest in development systems or the advancement of players. They only leverage the efforts of existing bodies, putting players at risk of economic hardship while profiting themselves.

“They are, in reality, imitating the sport.”

R360 is established by retired international Mike Tindall and backed by commercial backers.

Subsequent to the prospective union sanctions were declared earlier, it commented: “We aim to collaborate together as integrated into the international rugby schedule.

“The series is structured with tailored timetables for male and female sides and R360 will allow all athletes for international matches, as specified in their agreements.”

The new league will apply for endorsement for its plans from World Rugby, the sport's administrative organization, at its council meeting next year.