R360 Competition Recruits Hit With 10-Year Suspension from NRL

Rugby league's authority has declared that athletes who join the “breakaway” R360 competition will be banned for a decade.

The new league, which plans to launch in 2026, is hoping to draw athletes from both codes with substantial agreements and a slimmed-down playing schedule.

Top rugby league players have reportedly received offers by R360, which will feature six to eight men's clubs and women's teams operating from large metropolitan areas around the world.

Samoa's the player, who plays for New Zealand Warriors in the league, has said he has had negotiations involving R360.

Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Jye Gray are also said to be thinking about signing the rebel league.

Several leading rugby union nations, among them Australia, last week imposed a restriction on R360 recruits participating in global fixtures.

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

“Regrettably, there will persistently exist groups that try to exploit our sport for potential financial gain.

“They fail to contribute in pathways or the advancement of players. They merely capitalize on the dedication of others, jeopardizing careers of financial loss while profiting themselves.

“Essentially, they are, copying the game.”

The league is established by former England World Cup winner Mike Tindall and supported by independent financiers.

After the possible rugby union prohibitions were declared last week, it said: “We aim to collaborate together as a component of the worldwide fixture list.

“The competition is structured with bespoke schedules for male and female sides and we will permit participants for test matches, as written into their deals.”

The breakaway group will seek approval for its plans from World Rugby, rugby union's regulatory group, at its council meeting next year.