R360 Athletes Face 10-Year Suspension from NRL

Rugby league's authority has announced that players who sign with the “breakaway” R360 competition will be banned for a decade.

The proposed competition, set to start in October 2026, is seeking to lure rugby union and rugby league players with hefty contracts and a reduced fixture list.

Leading NRL players have reportedly been approached by the new league, which will involve six to eight men's sides and women's teams located in large metropolitan areas worldwide.

Representing Samoa the rugby star, who is with New Zealand Warriors in the league, has stated he has had discussions with the new organization.

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

A group of union nations, such as Australia, recently announced a restriction on players joining R360 playing global fixtures.

“We have consulted our franchises and we've acted decisively,” said ARLC head the official.

“Sadly, there will always be organizations that seek to pirate our code for monetary profit.

“They don't invest in pathways or the advancement of players. They only leverage the dedication of other organizations, jeopardizing careers of economic hardship while gaining personally.

“They are, in reality, imitating the sport.”

R360 is established by ex-England star Tindall and backed by private investors.

Following the prospective union sanctions were announced last week, it said: “We seek to cooperate together as part of the global rugby calendar.

“The competition is designed with customized calendars for both genders and R360 will release all players for test matches, as written into their contracts.”

The new league will request authorization for its plans from rugby union's governing body, the sport's administrative organization, at its council meeting in 2026.