R360 Competition Athletes Face 10-Year Suspension from Australia's Rugby League

The NRL's authority has declared that players who join the “rebel” R360 competition will be prohibited for a decade.

The proposed competition, which plans to launch in 2026, is hoping to draw athletes from both codes with substantial agreements and a reduced fixture list.

Leading rugby league players have reportedly been approached by R360, which will include six or eight men's clubs and four women's teams located in large metropolitan areas worldwide.

The Samoan Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who is with New Zealand Warriors in the NRL, has stated he has had discussions with the new organization.

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

A group of union nations, such as Australia, earlier announced a restriction on athletes signing with R360 appearing in global fixtures.

“We've listened to our teams and we've responded strongly,” said the league's chief V'Landys.

“Sadly, there will persistently exist groups that seek to pirate our code for potential financial gain.

“They avoid funding in pathways or the advancement of players. They merely capitalize on the efforts of other organizations, jeopardizing careers of monetary damage while gaining personally.

“In truth, they represent, imitating the sport.”

The organization is launched by ex-England star Tindall and supported by independent financiers.

Subsequent to the potential union bans were announced last week, it commented: “We seek to cooperate together as integrated into the worldwide fixture list.

“The series is arranged with tailored timetables for men's and women's teams and the organization will permit participants for international matches, as specified in their contracts.”

The new league will apply for endorsement for its proposals from the international authority, rugby union's administrative organization, at its council meeting in 2026.