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

Rugby league's authority has announced that athletes who sign with the “counterfeit” R360 competition will be banned for a decade.

R360, scheduled to begin in 2026, is hoping to draw athletes from both codes with hefty contracts and a slimmed-down game calendar.

Leading rugby league players have reportedly received offers by the new league, which will include multiple men's teams and four women's teams operating from key urban centers worldwide.

Samoa's the rugby star, who plays for the Warriors in the league, has confirmed he has had discussions with R360.

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

Eight major rugby union teams, including Australia, last week declared a prohibition on R360 recruits participating in international matches.

“We have consulted our clubs and we've taken firm action,” stated the league's head V'Landys.

“Unfortunately, there will persistently exist organizations that seek to pirate our game for economic benefit.

“They don't invest in pathways or the development of players. They simply exploit the dedication of existing bodies, jeopardizing careers of financial loss while benefiting financially.

“They are, in reality, imitating the sport.”

The league is co-founded by ex-England star Mike Tindall and supported by private investors.

Following the possible rugby union sanctions were revealed last week, it commented: “We want to work together as part of the global rugby calendar.

“The series is arranged with tailored timetables for men's and women's teams and R360 will permit participants for international matches, as included in their contracts.”

The new league will seek approval for its proposals from the international authority, union's regulatory group, at its official gathering next year.