R360 Competition Players Hit With Decade-Long Ban from NRL
Roger Tuivasa-Sheck gained 20 international appearances for the All Blacks before transferring representation to Samoa.
Australian rugby league's administration has stated that participants who enter the “rebel” R360 league will be barred for 10 years.
R360, which plans to launch in late 2026, is hoping to draw athletes from both codes with hefty contracts and a condensed playing schedule.
Top rugby league players have allegedly been contacted by R360, which will include six or eight men's teams and four women's sides operating from major cities around the world.
Representing Samoa the rugby star, who plays for his NRL club in the NRL, has stated he has had negotiations involving the new organization.
Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Jye Gray are also reported to be considering joining R360.
Eight major union countries, such as Australia, earlier announced a restriction on R360 recruits appearing in test matches.
“We heard our franchises and we've taken firm action,” commented ARLC chief the official.
“Unfortunately, there will always be groups that try to exploit our sport for potential financial gain.
“They avoid funding in pathways or the development of players. They only leverage the dedication of other organizations, endangering athletes of financial loss while benefiting financially.
“In truth, they represent, counterfeiting a code.”
R360 is co-founded by retired international Mike Tindall and funded by private investors.
Following the possible rugby union bans were revealed recently, it stated: “We seek to cooperate in partnership as a component of the global rugby calendar.
“The competition is arranged with customized calendars for male and female sides and R360 will allow all athletes for international matches, as specified in their deals.”
The breakaway group will apply for endorsement for its proposals from rugby union's governing body, the sport's governing body, at its official gathering in the coming year.
