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

Rugby league's authority has stated that athletes who sign with the “breakaway” R360 will be banned for a decade.

The new league, set to start in late 2026, is seeking to lure rugby union and rugby league players with hefty contracts and a reduced game calendar.

Prominent National Rugby League players have allegedly been contacted by R360, which will involve six or eight men's clubs and four women's teams based in large metropolitan areas globally.

Samoa's Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who represents his NRL club in the competition, has confirmed he has had negotiations involving the new organization.

Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Jye Gray are also believed to be thinking about signing R360.

Eight major rugby union nations, including Australia, last week announced a ban on R360 recruits playing test matches.

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

“Regrettably, there will always be groups that attempt to hijack our sport for monetary profit.

“They don't invest in talent pipelines or the development of athletes. They only leverage the efforts of existing bodies, endangering athletes of economic hardship while benefiting financially.

“In truth, they represent, imitating the sport.”

The organization is established by ex-England star Tindall and supported by independent financiers.

Subsequent to the possible union sanctions were announced recently, it stated: “We seek to cooperate collaboratively as part of the global rugby calendar.

“The competition is structured with customized calendars for male and female sides and the organization will allow all athletes for global fixtures, as specified in their deals.”

R360 will apply for endorsement for its initiatives from the international authority, rugby union's governing body, at its official gathering in 2026.