R360 Players Hit With 10-Season Ban from Australia's Rugby League

Rugby league's governing body has declared that athletes who join the “breakaway” R360 will be prohibited for 10 years.

The new league, scheduled to begin in October 2026, is aiming to attract rugby union and rugby league players with lucrative deals and a reduced playing schedule.

Leading rugby league stars have reportedly been approached by R360, which will feature multiple men's teams and four women's teams based in key urban centers globally.

Samoa's Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who represents the Warriors in the competition, has stated he has had discussions with the new organization.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Payne Haas and Gray are also reported to be considering joining the new competition.

Eight major rugby union nations, such as Australia, recently declared a restriction on R360 recruits appearing in test matches.

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

“Unfortunately, there will persistently exist organizations that try to exploit our game for economic benefit.

“They fail to contribute in talent pipelines or the development of talent. They simply exploit the hard work of other organizations, jeopardizing careers of monetary damage while benefiting financially.

“Essentially, they are, imitating the sport.”

R360 is launched by retired international Mike Tindall and funded by private investors.

Subsequent to the potential rugby union sanctions were declared earlier, it said: “We seek to cooperate in partnership as integrated into the international rugby schedule.

“The competition is structured with customized calendars for male and female sides and R360 will release all players for global fixtures, as written into their agreements.”

R360 will seek approval for its initiatives from rugby union's governing body, union's governing body, at its council meeting in 2026.