R360 League Players Hit With 10-Year Suspension from National Rugby League

The NRL's authority has declared that players who join the “rebel” R360 league will be barred for 10 years.

The proposed competition, set to start in October 2026, is hoping to draw athletes from both codes with hefty contracts and a slimmed-down game calendar.

Prominent rugby league stars have allegedly been contacted by R360, which will feature multiple men's clubs and women's teams located in large metropolitan areas around the world.

Samoa's the rugby star, who represents New Zealand Warriors in the league, has stated he has had negotiations involving the breakaway league.

Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Jye Gray are also said to be considering joining the rebel league.

Eight major rugby union nations, such as Australia, last week imposed a restriction on R360 recruits playing test matches.

“We heard our clubs and we've responded strongly,” commented the league's head the official.

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

“They don't invest in development systems or the growth of talent. They merely capitalize on the dedication of others, putting players at risk of economic hardship while benefiting financially.

“Essentially, they are, copying the game.”

R360 is launched by retired international Mike Tindall and backed by independent financiers.

After the prospective rugby union bans were announced recently, it said: “We seek to cooperate collaboratively as integrated into the global rugby calendar.

“The competition is structured with bespoke schedules for both genders and we will permit participants for test matches, as specified in their deals.”

The new league will apply for endorsement for its initiatives from World Rugby, rugby union's administrative organization, at its council meeting next year.