R360 Competition Athletes Face 10-Year Suspension from Australia's Rugby League

Australian rugby league's authority has announced that players who enter the “breakaway” R360 will be barred for 10 seasons.

The proposed competition, which plans to launch in 2026, is aiming to attract rugby union and rugby league players with substantial agreements and a slimmed-down playing schedule.

Prominent rugby league athletes have reportedly received offers by the breakaway group, which will include six to eight men's teams and four women's sides located in major cities around the world.

Samoa's the rugby star, who plays for the Warriors in the competition, has stated he has had discussions with the new organization.

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

Several leading union teams, including Australia, recently imposed a ban on R360 recruits participating in international matches.

“We've listened to our franchises and we've acted decisively,” stated ARLC chairman V'Landys.

“Regrettably, there will continually be organizations that attempt to hijack our game for economic benefit.

“They fail to contribute in pathways or the advancement of athletes. They only leverage the hard work of other organizations, putting players at risk of monetary damage while benefiting financially.

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

R360 is established by retired international Tindall and supported by commercial backers.

Subsequent to the possible union sanctions were announced earlier, it stated: “We aim to collaborate in partnership as a component of the international rugby schedule.

“The series is structured with bespoke schedules for men's and women's teams and R360 will release all players for international matches, as written into their agreements.”

The new league will apply for endorsement for its initiatives from World Rugby, the sport's administrative organization, at its board session in 2026.