R360 Recruits Subject to 10-Year Ban from Australia's Rugby League

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

R360, set to start in late 2026, is seeking to lure athletes from both codes with substantial agreements and a reduced fixture list.

Prominent National Rugby League athletes have reportedly received offers by R360, which will involve six or eight men's sides and women's teams located in large metropolitan areas globally.

Samoa's the rugby star, who plays for the Warriors in the NRL, has stated he has had negotiations involving the breakaway league.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Jye Gray are also said to be weighing up offers from R360.

A group of rugby union teams, among them Australia, recently imposed a prohibition on players joining R360 appearing in global fixtures.

“We've listened to our franchises and we've responded strongly,” said ARLC chairman the official.

“Unfortunately, there will always be entities that attempt to hijack our code for potential financial gain.

“They fail to contribute in pathways or the advancement of talent. They merely capitalize on the dedication of existing bodies, putting players at risk of economic hardship while gaining personally.

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

R360 is established by former England World Cup winner Mike Tindall and supported by commercial backers.

Following the prospective union prohibitions were announced recently, it said: “We aim to collaborate together as part of the worldwide fixture list.

“The event is designed with tailored timetables for both genders and the organization will allow all athletes for global fixtures, as written into their contracts.”

R360 will seek approval for its proposals from rugby union's governing body, union's governing body, at its board session in 2026.