R360 Competition Players Hit With 10-Year Ban from Australia's Rugby League

Rugby league's authority has declared that athletes who join the “rebel” R360 competition will be barred for 10 seasons.

R360, scheduled to begin in late 2026, is seeking to lure athletes from both codes with lucrative deals and a condensed playing schedule.

Top NRL stars have reportedly been approached by R360, which will involve multiple men's clubs and four women's sides based in major cities worldwide.

The Samoan the rugby star, who represents the Warriors in the competition, has confirmed he has had discussions with R360.

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

Several leading union teams, among them Australia, recently announced a prohibition on R360 recruits playing test matches.

“We heard our clubs and we've responded strongly,” said the league's chairman Peter V'Landys.

“Unfortunately, there will always be entities that seek to pirate our game for potential financial gain.

“They don't invest in talent pipelines or the advancement of players. They simply exploit the dedication of others, jeopardizing careers of monetary damage while benefiting financially.

“In truth, they represent, counterfeiting a code.”

R360 is launched by former England World Cup winner Tindall and backed by commercial backers.

Following the possible union bans were announced earlier, it said: “We aim to collaborate together as integrated into the global rugby calendar.

“The event is designed with tailored timetables for both genders and R360 will release all players for test matches, as included in their contracts.”

R360 will apply for endorsement for its proposals from the international authority, union's administrative organization, at its official gathering next year.