R360 League Players Face Decade-Long Ban from National Rugby League

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

The new league, set to start in late 2026, is seeking to lure rugby union and rugby league players with substantial agreements and a condensed fixture list.

Leading National Rugby League players have reportedly been approached by the new league, which will feature six or eight men's sides and four women's teams based in major cities worldwide.

Samoa's the player, who is with New Zealand Warriors in the league, has said he has had talks with the new organization.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Haas and Gray are also said to be considering joining the rebel league.

A group of union countries, such as Australia, last week declared a restriction on R360 recruits appearing in global fixtures.

“We've listened to our teams and we've responded strongly,” said ARLC head Peter V'Landys.

“Regrettably, there will always be organizations that attempt to hijack our sport for potential financial gain.

“They avoid funding in development systems or the advancement of athletes. They merely capitalize on the dedication of other organizations, jeopardizing careers of economic hardship while benefiting financially.

“Essentially, they are, copying the game.”

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

Subsequent to the possible rugby union sanctions were revealed last week, it stated: “We seek to cooperate in partnership as integrated into the global rugby calendar.

“The event is structured with customized calendars for both genders and the organization will release all players for test matches, as written into their agreements.”

The breakaway group will apply for endorsement for its initiatives from the international authority, union's administrative organization, at its board session in the coming year.