R360 League Recruits Subject to 10-Season Ban from Australia's Rugby League

Australian rugby league's governing body has stated that athletes who join the “counterfeit” R360 competition will be barred for 10 seasons.

The new league, set to start in 2026, is seeking to lure athletes from both codes with hefty contracts and a slimmed-down playing schedule.

Prominent NRL stars have reportedly received offers by the new league, which will involve six or eight men's clubs and four women's sides located in large metropolitan areas globally.

The Samoan the player, who represents his NRL club in the league, has confirmed he has had discussions with the breakaway league.

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

Several leading union nations, such as Australia, last week announced a prohibition on R360 recruits playing global fixtures.

“We have consulted our franchises and we've responded strongly,” said ARLC chairman the official.

“Regrettably, there will always be groups that attempt to hijack our game for potential financial gain.

“They avoid funding in development systems or the advancement of talent. They simply exploit the hard work of existing bodies, putting players at risk of monetary damage while benefiting financially.

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

The league is launched by former England World Cup winner Tindall and supported by independent financiers.

Subsequent to the possible union sanctions were declared earlier, it commented: “We want to work collaboratively as part of the worldwide fixture list.

“The series is designed with customized calendars for men's and women's teams and the organization will release all players for global fixtures, as written into their contracts.”

The breakaway group will seek approval for its plans from World Rugby, the sport's regulatory group, at its official gathering next year.