R360 Athletes Face 10-Season Suspension from NRL

Rugby league's authority has announced that players who sign with the “breakaway” R360 league will be prohibited for 10 years.

The new league, set to start in October 2026, is seeking to lure rugby union and rugby league players with lucrative deals and a reduced playing schedule.

Prominent National Rugby League athletes have reportedly received offers by R360, which will involve six or eight men's sides and four women's teams based in major cities worldwide.

Representing Samoa the rugby star, who is with the Warriors in the competition, has said he has had talks with the new organization.

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

Eight major rugby union teams, including Australia, recently declared a ban on players joining R360 participating in global fixtures.

“We have consulted our teams and we've taken firm action,” stated the league's chief the official.

“Regrettably, there will always be entities that seek to pirate our code for economic benefit.

“They fail to contribute in pathways or the advancement of talent. They simply exploit the dedication of existing bodies, endangering athletes of monetary damage while benefiting financially.

“In truth, they represent, copying the game.”

R360 is co-founded by retired international Mike Tindall and supported by private investors.

Subsequent to the possible rugby union sanctions were revealed last week, it said: “We want to work in partnership as part of the global rugby calendar.

“The series is structured with tailored timetables for both genders and we will release all players for global fixtures, as included in their deals.”

The breakaway group will apply for endorsement for its initiatives from World Rugby, union's administrative organization, at its council meeting in the coming year.