🔗 Share this article R360 League Players Face 10-Season Suspension from National Rugby League The athlete earned 20 caps for New Zealand before transferring representation to the Samoan team. Australian rugby league's governing body has declared that athletes who enter the “rebel” R360 competition will be banned for 10 years. R360, which plans to launch in 2026, is seeking to lure rugby union and rugby league players with substantial agreements and a reduced fixture list. Leading National Rugby League athletes have reportedly been approached by the new league, which will include six to eight men's clubs and four women's sides located in large metropolitan areas globally. Samoa's the rugby star, who is with New Zealand Warriors in the competition, has stated he has had discussions with R360. Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Payne Haas and Jye Gray are also said to be considering joining R360. Several leading union countries, including Australia, earlier imposed a restriction on R360 recruits playing global fixtures. “We've listened to our teams and we've responded strongly,” said ARLC head V'Landys. “Unfortunately, there will always be entities that seek to pirate our game for economic benefit. “They avoid funding in pathways or the advancement of players. They only leverage the hard work of others, putting players at risk of financial loss while benefiting financially. “Essentially, they are, copying the game.” The organization is established by former England World Cup winner Tindall and supported by commercial backers. Subsequent to the prospective union bans were revealed recently, it commented: “We aim to collaborate together as integrated into the international rugby schedule. “The series is arranged with tailored timetables for male and female sides and we will allow all athletes for test matches, as included in their contracts.” The new league will apply for endorsement for its plans from the international authority, rugby union's governing body, at its official gathering in 2026.