R360 Competition Recruits Subject to 10-Season Suspension from Australia's Rugby League

Australian rugby league's administration has announced that participants who sign with the “rebel” R360 will be prohibited for 10 seasons.

The new league, which plans to launch in October 2026, is hoping to draw athletes from both codes with substantial agreements and a condensed fixture list.

Leading National Rugby League stars have allegedly been contacted by R360, which will include multiple men's teams and four women's teams located in large metropolitan areas globally.

Representing Samoa the rugby star, who plays for his NRL club in the competition, has stated he has had talks with the new organization.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Payne Haas and Jye Gray are also said to be thinking about signing the new competition.

A group of rugby union teams, such as Australia, recently imposed a restriction on players joining R360 appearing in global fixtures.

“We have consulted our franchises and we've responded strongly,” stated Australian Rugby League Commission chairman Peter V'Landys.

“Unfortunately, there will always be groups that attempt to hijack our code for monetary profit.

“They avoid funding in talent pipelines or the growth of players. They simply exploit the dedication of existing bodies, endangering athletes of monetary damage while profiting themselves.

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

The league is established by ex-England star Mike Tindall and backed by private investors.

Subsequent to the prospective union sanctions were declared earlier, it commented: “We aim to collaborate together as part of the global rugby calendar.

“The series is arranged with customized calendars for both genders and the organization will release all players for test matches, as specified in their agreements.”

The new league will request authorization for its plans from the international authority, rugby union's administrative organization, at its board session next year.