R360 Athletes Hit With Decade-Long Ban from Australia's Rugby League
The rugby star won 20 test matches for New Zealand before changing representation to Samoa.
Rugby league's authority has stated that athletes who sign with the “rebel” R360 competition will be banned for 10 years.
The new league, set to start in late 2026, is seeking to lure athletes from both codes with lucrative deals and a slimmed-down playing schedule.
Leading rugby league stars have reportedly been approached by the breakaway group, which will involve multiple men's clubs and women's teams located in major cities globally.
Representing Samoa Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who plays for the Warriors in the competition, has confirmed he has had talks with R360.
Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Haas and Gray are also reported to be considering joining the rebel league.
Eight major union nations, among them Australia, recently declared a restriction on R360 recruits appearing in test matches.
“We've listened to our franchises and we've responded strongly,” stated the league's head the official.
“Regrettably, there will continually be groups that attempt to hijack our code for economic benefit.
“They avoid funding in pathways or the advancement of players. They merely capitalize on the dedication of other organizations, putting players at risk of financial loss while benefiting financially.
“In truth, they represent, counterfeiting a code.”
The league is launched by former England World Cup winner Mike Tindall and backed by commercial backers.
After the potential rugby union bans were announced recently, it commented: “We seek to cooperate collaboratively as part of the worldwide fixture list.
“The competition is structured with tailored timetables for men's and women's teams and we will allow all athletes for test matches, as included in their deals.”
The new league will apply for endorsement for its proposals from World Rugby, the sport's administrative organization, at its council meeting in the coming year.
