R360 Competition Recruits Hit With Decade-Long Exclusion from Australia's Rugby League

Rugby league's administration has stated that athletes who join the “breakaway” R360 competition will be prohibited for a decade.

R360, set to start in 2026, is aiming to attract athletes from both codes with lucrative deals and a reduced fixture list.

Prominent rugby league players have reportedly received offers by the new league, which will include multiple men's clubs and women's teams located in key urban centers globally.

The Samoan the rugby star, who represents New Zealand Warriors in the league, has stated he has had discussions with the new organization.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Payne Haas and Gray are also reported to be weighing up offers from the new competition.

Eight major union countries, including Australia, earlier imposed a prohibition on athletes signing with R360 participating in global fixtures.

“We have consulted our teams and we've acted decisively,” stated the league's chief the official.

“Regrettably, there will always be groups that try to exploit our sport for economic benefit.

“They don't invest in talent pipelines or the development of athletes. They only leverage the hard work of others, putting players at risk of economic hardship while profiting themselves.

“Essentially, they are, imitating the sport.”

The league is co-founded by retired international Tindall and backed by commercial backers.

After the potential rugby union sanctions were revealed earlier, it said: “We aim to collaborate collaboratively as part of the worldwide fixture list.

“The series is arranged with customized calendars for male and female sides and R360 will permit participants for global fixtures, as written into their deals.”

The new league will apply for endorsement for its plans from the international authority, the sport's regulatory group, at its council meeting in the coming year.