R360 Competition Recruits Hit With Decade-Long Ban from Australia's Rugby League

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

The proposed competition, which plans to launch in late 2026, is aiming to attract rugby union and rugby league players with substantial agreements and a condensed game calendar.

Top National Rugby League stars have reportedly been approached by R360, which will feature six to eight men's sides and four women's teams located in large metropolitan areas around the world.

Samoa's Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who plays for the Warriors in the league, has confirmed he has had talks with R360.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Haas and Gray are also believed to be weighing up offers from the rebel league.

A group of union teams, such as Australia, earlier declared a prohibition on athletes signing with R360 playing international matches.

“We've listened to our teams and we've taken firm action,” commented ARLC chief Peter V'Landys.

“Sadly, there will persistently exist groups that attempt to hijack our code for monetary profit.

“They don't invest in talent pipelines or the development of athletes. They merely capitalize on the efforts of others, jeopardizing careers of economic hardship while gaining personally.

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

The league is established by former England World Cup winner Tindall and backed by independent financiers.

Following the prospective union prohibitions were announced earlier, it said: “We aim to collaborate together as part of the global rugby calendar.

“The competition is arranged with customized calendars for male and female sides and we will release all players for test matches, as specified in their deals.”

R360 will request authorization for its plans from World Rugby, the sport's governing body, at its board session in the coming year.