R360 Competition Recruits Subject to 10-Year Ban from Australia's Rugby League

Rugby league's governing body has announced that participants who sign with the “counterfeit” R360 competition will be barred for 10 years.

R360, which plans to launch in 2026, is hoping to draw players from union and league with substantial agreements and a reduced playing schedule.

Top rugby league athletes have reportedly been approached by the new league, which will feature six to eight men's sides and four women's sides located in key urban centers globally.

Representing Samoa the rugby star, who is with New Zealand Warriors in the league, has stated he has had negotiations involving the new organization.

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

A group of rugby union nations, such as Australia, recently declared a prohibition on athletes signing with R360 appearing in international matches.

“We have consulted our teams and we've responded strongly,” stated the league's head V'Landys.

“Regrettably, there will persistently exist groups that seek to pirate our code for economic benefit.

“They avoid funding in pathways or the growth of players. They only leverage the efforts of existing bodies, endangering athletes of economic hardship while profiting themselves.

“In truth, they represent, imitating the sport.”

The league is launched by former England World Cup winner Tindall and backed by private investors.

After the potential union bans were revealed earlier, it stated: “We seek to cooperate collaboratively as a component of the international rugby schedule.

“The competition is structured with tailored timetables for men's and women's teams and the organization will allow all athletes for test matches, as included in their contracts.”

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