R360 Athletes Hit With 10-Season Ban from Australia's Rugby League

Australian rugby league's administration has stated that participants who join the “breakaway” R360 competition will be prohibited for 10 seasons.

The new league, which plans to launch in 2026, is aiming to attract rugby union and rugby league players with hefty contracts and a condensed playing schedule.

Top National Rugby League players have reportedly received offers by R360, which will involve six or eight men's teams and four women's sides located in major cities globally.

Samoa's the player, who represents his NRL club in the league, has stated he has had discussions with the breakaway league.

Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Gray are also believed to be thinking about signing the rebel league.

Several leading rugby union teams, among them Australia, recently announced a prohibition on players joining R360 appearing in test matches.

“We heard our franchises and we've taken firm action,” stated the league's chief the official.

“Sadly, there will persistently exist groups that try to exploit our code for economic benefit.

“They fail to contribute in pathways or the advancement of athletes. They only leverage the efforts of existing bodies, putting players at risk of monetary damage while benefiting financially.

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

R360 is established by former England World Cup winner Tindall and backed by independent financiers.

After the possible union prohibitions were declared earlier, it commented: “We aim to collaborate in partnership as part of the global rugby calendar.

“The competition is designed with tailored timetables for male and female sides and we will release all players for test matches, as specified in their agreements.”

The breakaway group will request authorization for its proposals from the international authority, the sport's administrative organization, at its council meeting next year.