R360 Athletes Hit With 10-Year Ban from National Rugby League

Australian rugby league's governing body has announced that participants who join the “breakaway” R360 league will be banned for 10 years.

R360, which plans to launch in 2026, is seeking to lure athletes from both codes with substantial agreements and a slimmed-down playing schedule.

Leading rugby league athletes have allegedly been contacted by the breakaway group, which will involve multiple men's teams and women's teams based in key urban centers around the world.

The Samoan Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who is with New Zealand Warriors in the competition, has stated he has had discussions with the breakaway league.

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

Several leading union nations, including Australia, earlier announced a ban on R360 recruits participating in global fixtures.

“We've listened to our clubs and we've responded strongly,” stated ARLC head the official.

“Regrettably, there will persistently exist groups that try to exploit our code for potential financial gain.

“They fail to contribute in development systems or the development of talent. They only leverage the dedication of other organizations, putting players at risk of financial loss while profiting themselves.

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

R360 is co-founded by ex-England star Mike Tindall and supported by commercial backers.

After the potential rugby union bans were declared earlier, it said: “We seek to cooperate collaboratively as integrated into the international rugby schedule.

“The series is arranged with customized calendars for both genders and R360 will permit participants for international matches, as included in their agreements.”

The breakaway group will apply for endorsement for its proposals from World Rugby, union's administrative organization, at its official gathering in the coming year.