R360 Competition Recruits Face 10-Season Suspension from National Rugby League

Rugby league's governing body has announced that participants who enter the “counterfeit” R360 will be prohibited for 10 seasons.

The new league, which plans to launch in late 2026, is aiming to attract players from union and league with hefty contracts and a reduced game calendar.

Prominent rugby league players have reportedly been approached by the new league, which will involve six to eight men's clubs and four women's sides located in key urban centers globally.

Samoa's the player, who is with the Warriors in the league, has confirmed he has had talks with the breakaway league.

Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Jye Gray are also believed to be weighing up offers from the new competition.

Eight major union countries, such as Australia, recently declared a ban on athletes signing with R360 participating in global fixtures.

“We have consulted our franchises and we've taken firm action,” commented ARLC chief V'Landys.

“Sadly, there will persistently exist groups that try to exploit our code for economic benefit.

“They don't invest in development systems or the growth of athletes. They merely capitalize on the efforts of others, jeopardizing careers of economic hardship while benefiting financially.

“Essentially, they are, counterfeiting a code.”

The organization is co-founded by retired international Mike Tindall and supported by independent financiers.

Subsequent to the possible rugby union prohibitions were announced earlier, it commented: “We aim to collaborate together as a component of the worldwide fixture list.

“The event is structured with bespoke schedules for both genders and the organization will permit participants for international matches, as included in their deals.”

The breakaway group will seek approval for its initiatives from the international authority, rugby union's administrative organization, at its board session in 2026.