R360 League Recruits Face 10-Year Suspension from National Rugby League

Rugby league's administration has announced that participants who enter the “breakaway” R360 will be barred for 10 years.

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

Top rugby league players have reportedly received offers by the new league, which will include six to eight men's clubs and four women's teams based in large metropolitan areas globally.

Representing Samoa Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who plays for New Zealand Warriors in the competition, has said he has had talks with R360.

Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Haas and Jye Gray are also believed to be weighing up offers from the rebel league.

Several leading union teams, including Australia, recently announced a restriction on R360 recruits appearing in test matches.

“We've listened to our clubs and we've responded strongly,” commented Australian Rugby League Commission chief the official.

“Sadly, there will continually be entities that try to exploit our game for potential financial gain.

“They fail to contribute in pathways or the advancement of players. They only leverage the hard work of existing bodies, putting players at risk of economic hardship while gaining personally.

“They are, in reality, counterfeiting a code.”

R360 is established by retired international Tindall and funded by independent financiers.

Subsequent to the potential union bans were announced earlier, it stated: “We seek to cooperate together as part of the international rugby schedule.

“The series is structured with tailored timetables for male and female sides and the organization will permit participants for test matches, as included in their deals.”

The breakaway group will apply for endorsement for its plans from the international authority, rugby union's administrative organization, at its board session next year.