R360 Recruits Hit With 10-Year Suspension from National Rugby League

Rugby league's administration has stated that participants who sign with the “rebel” R360 league will be barred for 10 seasons.

R360, set to start in 2026, is seeking to lure rugby union and rugby league players with substantial agreements and a slimmed-down fixture list.

Prominent NRL stars have reportedly been approached by the new league, which will include six to eight men's sides and women's teams located in major cities worldwide.

Representing Samoa the player, who represents New Zealand Warriors in the NRL, has said he has had negotiations involving the breakaway league.

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

Several leading union nations, such as Australia, earlier declared a prohibition on R360 recruits playing global fixtures.

“We've listened to our teams and we've acted decisively,” stated ARLC chief V'Landys.

“Unfortunately, there will continually be organizations that attempt to hijack our game for economic benefit.

“They avoid funding in pathways or the advancement of talent. They only leverage the hard work of other organizations, putting players at risk of financial loss while profiting themselves.

“Essentially, they are, counterfeiting a code.”

The organization is established by former England World Cup winner Mike Tindall and funded by independent financiers.

Subsequent to the potential union prohibitions were announced recently, it said: “We aim to collaborate collaboratively as integrated into the worldwide fixture list.

“The event is arranged with bespoke schedules for men's and women's teams and the organization will allow all athletes for test matches, as included in their contracts.”

The breakaway group will seek approval for its plans from the international authority, rugby union's regulatory group, at its council meeting in 2026.