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

Rugby league's governing body has stated that players who join the “rebel” R360 will be prohibited for 10 years.

The proposed competition, which plans to launch in 2026, is aiming to attract athletes from both codes with lucrative deals and a reduced game calendar.

Prominent National Rugby League stars have reportedly received offers by the breakaway group, which will involve multiple men's teams and four women's sides based in key urban centers around the world.

Samoa's the player, who plays for New Zealand Warriors in the league, has stated he has had negotiations involving the breakaway league.

Ryan Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Haas and Gray are also reported to be considering joining the rebel league.

Eight major rugby union nations, such as Australia, last week announced a prohibition on athletes signing with R360 playing global fixtures.

“We've listened to our clubs and we've acted decisively,” commented Australian Rugby League Commission chief Peter V'Landys.

“Sadly, there will continually be groups that attempt to hijack our game for monetary profit.

“They avoid funding in pathways or the development of players. They only leverage the efforts of other organizations, putting players at risk of economic hardship while profiting themselves.

“In truth, they represent, copying the game.”

The league is co-founded by former England World Cup winner Mike Tindall and backed by private investors.

Subsequent to the prospective rugby union sanctions were revealed last week, it commented: “We want to work together as integrated into the international rugby schedule.

“The competition is designed with tailored timetables for male and female sides and the organization will permit participants for global fixtures, as included in their deals.”

The breakaway group will seek approval for its initiatives from rugby union's governing body, union's administrative organization, at its council meeting next year.