R360 Players Face 10-Season Exclusion from Australia's Rugby League

Australian rugby league's authority has declared that participants who enter the “counterfeit” R360 competition will be banned for 10 seasons.

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

Leading rugby league stars have reportedly been approached by the breakaway group, which will involve six to eight men's sides and four women's teams based in large metropolitan areas worldwide.

The Samoan the player, who represents the Warriors in the league, has stated he has had negotiations involving the new organization.

Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Haas and Jye Gray are also reported to be weighing up offers from R360.

Several leading rugby union nations, such as Australia, earlier announced a ban on R360 recruits appearing in global fixtures.

“We've listened to our franchises and we've taken firm action,” commented Australian Rugby League Commission chief V'Landys.

“Unfortunately, there will continually be groups that attempt to hijack our game for economic benefit.

“They fail to contribute in pathways or the development of players. They merely capitalize on the dedication of other organizations, jeopardizing careers of financial loss while profiting themselves.

“In truth, they represent, counterfeiting a code.”

The league is co-founded by retired international Tindall and supported by commercial backers.

Subsequent to the potential union prohibitions were declared earlier, it commented: “We aim to collaborate together as integrated into the worldwide fixture list.

“The series is arranged with customized calendars for both genders and R360 will allow all athletes for international matches, as included in their deals.”

The new league will apply for endorsement for its plans from rugby union's governing body, rugby union's administrative organization, at its board session in the coming year.