R360 League Recruits Hit With Decade-Long Ban from Australia's Rugby League

Rugby league's authority has announced that participants who join the “rebel” R360 league will be prohibited for 10 years.

The new league, set to start in 2026, is hoping to draw rugby union and rugby league players with substantial agreements and a slimmed-down playing schedule.

Prominent NRL stars have reportedly received offers by R360, which will include six or eight men's teams and four women's teams operating from key urban centers worldwide.

The Samoan the rugby star, who represents the Warriors in the NRL, has stated he has had discussions with the new organization.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Haas and Gray are also reported to be thinking about signing R360.

A group of union countries, such as Australia, earlier imposed a restriction on athletes signing with R360 appearing in test matches.

“We've listened to our teams and we've taken firm action,” commented Australian Rugby League Commission chairman the official.

“Sadly, there will persistently exist organizations that attempt to hijack our sport for economic benefit.

“They don't invest in pathways or the development of athletes. They only leverage the dedication of existing bodies, jeopardizing careers of monetary damage while benefiting financially.

“Essentially, they are, imitating the sport.”

The league is established by former England World Cup winner Mike Tindall and funded by private investors.

Subsequent to the possible union bans were announced last week, it commented: “We aim to collaborate collaboratively as integrated into the international rugby schedule.

“The event is structured with tailored timetables for both genders and R360 will release all players for international matches, as written into their contracts.”

R360 will seek approval for its proposals from rugby union's governing body, rugby union's administrative organization, at its official gathering in the coming year.