R360 League Players Face 10-Season Suspension from National Rugby League

Rugby league's administration has declared that athletes who join the “breakaway” R360 will be prohibited for 10 years.

R360, which plans to launch in October 2026, is hoping to draw athletes from both codes with lucrative deals and a slimmed-down playing schedule.

Leading NRL athletes have reportedly received offers by the breakaway group, which will involve six to eight men's teams and four women's sides based in key urban centers worldwide.

The Samoan the player, who plays for New Zealand Warriors in the league, has said he has had negotiations involving the breakaway league.

Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Haas and Jye Gray are also reported to be thinking about signing R360.

Eight major rugby union teams, including Australia, earlier declared a prohibition on R360 recruits playing test matches.

“We heard our clubs and we've responded strongly,” commented Australian Rugby League Commission chief Peter V'Landys.

“Unfortunately, there will persistently exist groups that attempt to hijack our game for economic benefit.

“They fail to contribute in talent pipelines or the development of players. They simply exploit the hard work of others, putting players at risk of financial loss while profiting themselves.

“In truth, they represent, counterfeiting a code.”

The league is established by ex-England star Mike Tindall and funded by private investors.

Following the potential union sanctions were declared last week, it said: “We aim to collaborate together as a component of the global rugby calendar.

“The competition is structured with customized calendars for male and female sides and the organization will release all players for international matches, as specified in their contracts.”

The breakaway group will apply for endorsement for its proposals from rugby union's governing body, the sport's regulatory group, at its board session next year.