R360 League Recruits Face 10-Season Ban from NRL

Australian rugby league's governing body has declared that athletes who join the “breakaway” R360 competition will be banned for 10 seasons.

The new league, set to start in 2026, is seeking to lure players from union and league with substantial agreements and a reduced game calendar.

Top rugby league stars have reportedly been approached by R360, which will feature six to eight men's clubs and four women's teams located in key urban centers globally.

Samoa's the player, who plays for his NRL club in the league, has said he has had negotiations involving the breakaway league.

Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Jye Gray are also reported to be considering joining the rebel league.

Eight major union countries, including Australia, earlier declared a ban on players joining R360 appearing in international matches.

“We have consulted our franchises and we've taken firm action,” commented Australian Rugby League Commission head the official.

“Unfortunately, there will continually be groups that try to exploit our sport for economic benefit.

“They don't invest in talent pipelines or the advancement of players. They simply exploit the efforts of existing bodies, endangering athletes of financial loss while gaining personally.

“Essentially, they are, imitating the sport.”

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

Subsequent to the possible rugby union sanctions were announced recently, it said: “We aim to collaborate collaboratively as a component of the international rugby schedule.

“The event is structured with bespoke schedules for both genders and R360 will permit participants for test matches, as included in their contracts.”

The breakaway group will seek approval for its plans from rugby union's governing body, rugby union's governing body, at its board session next year.