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

Rugby league's governing body has stated that participants who join the “rebel” R360 competition will be banned for 10 years.

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

Leading rugby league players have reportedly been approached by the new league, which will feature six or eight men's sides and women's teams based in large metropolitan areas around the world.

The Samoan the player, who plays for the Warriors in the competition, has said he has had talks with the breakaway league.

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

Eight major union nations, including Australia, recently imposed a restriction on athletes signing with R360 playing test matches.

“We have consulted our clubs and we've acted decisively,” stated the league's chairman V'Landys.

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

“They avoid funding in pathways or the development of talent. They simply exploit the dedication of other organizations, putting players at risk of monetary damage while benefiting financially.

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

The league is launched by ex-England star Mike Tindall and supported by commercial backers.

Following the possible rugby union sanctions were declared last week, it commented: “We want to work together as a component of the international rugby schedule.

“The event is structured with tailored timetables for both genders and R360 will release all players for global fixtures, as specified in their agreements.”

The new league will request authorization for its plans from rugby union's governing body, rugby union's regulatory group, at its council meeting next year.