R360 Competition Recruits Hit With 10-Season Ban from National Rugby League

Rugby league's governing body has stated that players who enter the “breakaway” R360 league will be banned for 10 seasons.

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

Prominent rugby league athletes have reportedly been approached by the new league, which will involve six to eight men's sides and women's teams based in major cities around the world.

Representing Samoa Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who represents New Zealand Warriors in the competition, has stated he has had discussions with R360.

Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Haas and Jye Gray are also reported to be considering joining R360.

Several leading union teams, among them Australia, last week announced a restriction on athletes signing with R360 appearing in test matches.

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

“Regrettably, there will persistently exist organizations that try to exploit our sport for economic benefit.

“They fail to contribute in pathways or the advancement of athletes. They only leverage the efforts of other organizations, endangering athletes of economic hardship while gaining personally.

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

R360 is launched by retired international Mike Tindall and funded by independent financiers.

Following the potential union bans were declared recently, it commented: “We want to work collaboratively as a component of the international rugby schedule.

“The event is structured with bespoke schedules for male and female sides and R360 will permit participants for international matches, as included in their contracts.”

The breakaway group will seek approval for its plans from World Rugby, rugby union's administrative organization, at its official gathering in 2026.