R360 Players Subject to 10-Season Suspension from National Rugby League

Rugby league's administration has declared that athletes who join the “rebel” R360 will be barred for 10 seasons.

R360, scheduled to begin in 2026, is aiming to attract athletes from both codes with substantial agreements and a slimmed-down playing schedule.

Prominent rugby league stars have allegedly been contacted by the new league, which will include six to eight men's clubs and women's teams located in major cities globally.

The Samoan Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who represents the Warriors in the league, has stated he has had negotiations involving R360.

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

Eight major union countries, such as Australia, earlier announced a ban on athletes signing with R360 playing international matches.

“We've listened to our franchises and we've responded strongly,” said ARLC chief Peter V'Landys.

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

“They avoid funding in pathways or the advancement of talent. They merely capitalize on the hard work of others, jeopardizing careers of economic hardship while benefiting financially.

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

The league is co-founded by former England World Cup winner Tindall and supported by independent financiers.

Following the possible union prohibitions were declared earlier, it commented: “We aim to collaborate together as a component of the international rugby schedule.

“The event is structured with bespoke schedules for both genders and R360 will permit participants for global fixtures, as written into their deals.”

The breakaway group will request authorization for its plans from the international authority, union's administrative organization, at its official gathering in the coming year.