R360 Players Hit With 10-Year Suspension from Australia's Rugby League

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

The new league, which plans to launch in late 2026, is seeking to lure rugby union and rugby league players with substantial agreements and a reduced game calendar.

Prominent NRL stars have allegedly been contacted by the breakaway group, which will include multiple men's clubs and women's teams based in key urban centers worldwide.

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

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

Eight major union countries, including Australia, earlier declared a prohibition on R360 recruits playing test matches.

“We heard our franchises and we've taken firm action,” stated the league's head the official.

“Regrettably, there will persistently exist organizations that seek to pirate our game for economic benefit.

“They don't invest in talent pipelines or the advancement of athletes. They merely capitalize on the hard work of other organizations, putting players at risk of monetary damage while benefiting financially.

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

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

Subsequent to the potential union prohibitions were declared earlier, it stated: “We want to work in partnership as integrated into the worldwide fixture list.

“The event is structured with bespoke schedules for men's and women's teams and R360 will permit participants for global fixtures, as included in their deals.”

The new league will seek approval for its initiatives from rugby union's governing body, rugby union's regulatory group, at its board session in 2026.