R360 Competition Athletes Face 10-Season Exclusion from NRL
Roger Tuivasa-Sheck won 20 caps for the Kiwis before transferring allegiance to the Samoan team.
The NRL's authority has stated that players who sign with the “rebel” R360 league will be barred for a decade.
R360, scheduled to begin in late 2026, is hoping to draw athletes from both codes with substantial agreements and a slimmed-down fixture list.
Leading NRL athletes have reportedly been approached by the breakaway group, which will involve six to eight men's teams and women's teams operating from major cities around the world.
Representing Samoa the player, who represents New Zealand Warriors in the league, has confirmed he has had discussions with the breakaway league.
Ryan Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Jye Gray are also believed to be considering joining the rebel league.
Eight major union teams, such as Australia, last week imposed a ban on R360 recruits participating in international matches.
“We've listened to our teams and we've acted decisively,” commented ARLC chairman Peter V'Landys.
“Sadly, there will persistently exist organizations that attempt to hijack our game for economic benefit.
“They don't invest in talent pipelines or the advancement of talent. They only leverage the hard work of other organizations, putting players at risk of economic hardship while profiting themselves.
“In truth, they represent, imitating the sport.”
The organization is launched by former England World Cup winner Tindall and backed by commercial backers.
After the possible rugby union sanctions were declared recently, it commented: “We aim to collaborate together as integrated into the international rugby schedule.
“The series is structured with tailored timetables for men's and women's teams and we will allow all athletes for test matches, as specified in their agreements.”
The new league will request authorization for its plans from rugby union's governing body, the sport's regulatory group, at its council meeting in 2026.
