R360 Recruits Subject to Decade-Long Exclusion from Australia's Rugby League

Australian rugby league's administration has declared that participants who sign with the “rebel” R360 competition will be barred for a decade.

The proposed competition, set to start in late 2026, is hoping to draw rugby union and rugby league players with hefty contracts and a condensed fixture list.

Leading rugby league athletes have reportedly received offers by the breakaway group, which will feature six to eight men's teams and four women's teams located in large metropolitan areas globally.

Samoa's Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who is with New Zealand Warriors in the competition, has said he has had discussions with the breakaway league.

Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Gray are also believed to be considering joining R360.

A group of union countries, including Australia, recently declared a prohibition on players joining R360 playing test matches.

“We have consulted our franchises and we've taken firm action,” said ARLC chief V'Landys.

“Unfortunately, there will continually be groups that try to exploit our sport for potential financial gain.

“They don't invest in development systems or the growth of athletes. They only leverage the dedication of other organizations, endangering athletes of financial loss while benefiting financially.

“Essentially, they are, imitating the sport.”

The league is launched by ex-England star Tindall and funded by private investors.

After the potential rugby union sanctions were announced recently, it stated: “We aim to collaborate collaboratively as part of the global rugby calendar.

“The series is arranged with bespoke schedules for male and female sides and the organization will release all players for test matches, as specified in their agreements.”

The breakaway group will apply for endorsement for its plans from the international authority, union's governing body, at its council meeting in the coming year.