R360 Competition Recruits Subject to 10-Season Suspension from National Rugby League

Rugby league's authority has declared that players who enter the “breakaway” R360 will be barred for a decade.

R360, scheduled to begin in October 2026, is aiming to attract players from union and league with substantial agreements and a slimmed-down playing schedule.

Top National Rugby League athletes have reportedly been approached by the breakaway group, which will feature multiple men's teams and four women's teams based in key urban centers worldwide.

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

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

Eight major rugby union nations, such as Australia, earlier announced a restriction on R360 recruits appearing in international matches.

“We have consulted our franchises and we've taken firm action,” stated Australian Rugby League Commission chief Peter V'Landys.

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

“They don't invest in pathways or the development of talent. They only leverage the dedication of other organizations, jeopardizing careers of financial loss while gaining personally.

“Essentially, they are, counterfeiting a code.”

R360 is co-founded by ex-England star Tindall and supported by independent financiers.

After the possible union prohibitions were declared recently, it stated: “We seek to cooperate together as a component of the international rugby schedule.

“The competition is designed with customized calendars for men's and women's teams and the organization will permit participants for global fixtures, as specified in their deals.”

The new league will apply for endorsement for its proposals from rugby union's governing body, union's governing body, at its council meeting in 2026.