R360 League Athletes Face 10-Season Ban from Australia's Rugby League

Australian rugby league's governing body has declared that athletes who enter the “counterfeit” R360 league will be barred for 10 years.

The proposed competition, which plans to launch in 2026, is seeking to lure athletes from both codes with substantial agreements and a reduced playing schedule.

Leading rugby league stars have allegedly been contacted by R360, which will involve six to eight men's teams and women's teams operating from large metropolitan areas worldwide.

Representing Samoa the player, who plays for the Warriors in the competition, has confirmed he has had talks with R360.

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

Eight major union nations, such as Australia, recently announced a prohibition on players joining R360 appearing in international matches.

“We have consulted our franchises and we've responded strongly,” said Australian Rugby League Commission head the official.

“Unfortunately, there will continually be organizations that seek to pirate our sport for economic benefit.

“They avoid funding in development systems or the advancement of athletes. They merely capitalize on the hard work of others, endangering athletes of economic hardship while gaining personally.

“They are, in reality, copying the game.”

R360 is launched by ex-England star Tindall and backed by independent financiers.

Following the possible rugby union prohibitions were announced recently, it commented: “We seek to cooperate collaboratively as a component of the global rugby calendar.

“The series is structured with customized calendars for men's and women's teams and the organization will release all players for test matches, as included in their agreements.”

The new league will request authorization for its plans from World Rugby, rugby union's governing body, at its board session in 2026.