R360 League Athletes Face Decade-Long Suspension from Australia's Rugby League

Australian rugby league's administration has stated that athletes who join the “rebel” R360 league will be prohibited for 10 years.

The new league, set to start in late 2026, is seeking to lure players from union and league with lucrative deals and a condensed fixture list.

Prominent NRL athletes have reportedly been approached by R360, which will include multiple men's clubs and four women's teams located in large metropolitan areas around the world.

The Samoan the rugby star, who is with his NRL club in the competition, has stated he has had talks with the breakaway league.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Haas and Gray are also reported to be weighing up offers from the rebel league.

Eight major rugby union nations, such as Australia, last week declared a ban on players joining R360 participating in international matches.

“We heard our franchises and we've responded strongly,” said the league's chief the official.

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

“They fail to contribute in pathways or the development of talent. They only leverage the dedication of other organizations, putting players at risk of economic hardship while benefiting financially.

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

The organization is co-founded by former England World Cup winner Mike Tindall and funded by private investors.

Subsequent to the possible rugby union bans were announced recently, it stated: “We want to work collaboratively as a component of the global rugby calendar.

“The event is arranged with bespoke schedules for both genders and the organization will allow all athletes for international matches, as included in their agreements.”

R360 will apply for endorsement for its proposals from rugby union's governing body, union's governing body, at its council meeting in the coming year.