R360 League Players Face Decade-Long Suspension from National Rugby League
The rugby star gained 20 caps for the Kiwis before switching loyalty to the Samoan team.
Australian rugby league's governing body has declared that athletes who join the “rebel” R360 league will be prohibited for 10 years.
The proposed competition, which plans to launch in October 2026, is seeking to lure rugby union and rugby league players with substantial agreements and a reduced fixture list.
Leading NRL players have allegedly been contacted by R360, which will involve six or eight men's clubs and women's teams operating from major cities around the world.
The Samoan the player, who is with the Warriors in the NRL, has said he has had talks with R360.
Ryan Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Haas and Gray are also believed to be considering joining R360.
Several leading union nations, among them Australia, earlier imposed a prohibition on athletes signing with R360 appearing in test matches.
“We've listened to our teams and we've responded strongly,” commented Australian Rugby League Commission chairman V'Landys.
“Unfortunately, there will persistently exist entities that attempt to hijack our code for potential financial gain.
“They avoid funding in talent pipelines or the development of talent. They only leverage the dedication of existing bodies, endangering athletes of monetary damage while gaining personally.
“Essentially, they are, copying the game.”
The league is established by ex-England star Mike Tindall and funded by commercial backers.
After the prospective union sanctions were revealed recently, it said: “We seek to cooperate collaboratively as integrated into the international rugby schedule.
“The event is structured with customized calendars for men's and women's teams and R360 will permit participants for international matches, as specified in their contracts.”
The breakaway group will apply for endorsement for its plans from the international authority, union's regulatory group, at its council meeting in 2026.
