R360 League Recruits Hit With Decade-Long Suspension from National Rugby League
Roger Tuivasa-Sheck gained 20 caps for New Zealand before switching loyalty to the Samoan team.
Australian rugby league's administration has stated that athletes who sign with the “rebel” R360 league will be banned for 10 seasons.
The new league, set to start in October 2026, is seeking to lure athletes from both codes with lucrative deals and a reduced game calendar.
Prominent NRL athletes have reportedly been approached by the breakaway group, which will feature six or eight men's clubs and four women's sides operating from large metropolitan areas around the world.
Representing Samoa the rugby star, who represents his NRL club in the league, has stated he has had talks with the breakaway league.
Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Payne Haas and Jye Gray are also reported to be weighing up offers from the rebel league.
Eight major rugby union countries, such as Australia, earlier declared a prohibition on athletes signing with R360 appearing in test matches.
“We have consulted our franchises and we've responded strongly,” said ARLC chief V'Landys.
“Sadly, there will continually be groups that attempt to hijack our game for monetary profit.
“They fail to contribute in talent pipelines or the development of athletes. They only leverage the dedication of existing bodies, jeopardizing careers of monetary damage while benefiting financially.
“They are, in reality, copying the game.”
R360 is launched by retired international Tindall and backed by private investors.
Subsequent to the potential union sanctions were announced last week, it said: “We want to work together as part of the international rugby schedule.
“The event is designed with customized calendars for male and female sides and the organization will permit participants for test matches, as written into their deals.”
The new league will apply for endorsement for its plans from the international authority, the sport's governing body, at its official gathering in the coming year.
