R360 Competition Recruits Hit With 10-Year Suspension from NRL
Roger Tuivasa-Sheck earned 20 international appearances for the Kiwis before switching allegiance to the Samoan team.
The NRL's administration has stated that participants who sign with the “rebel” R360 competition will be barred for 10 seasons.
R360, which plans to launch in 2026, is hoping to draw athletes from both codes with lucrative deals and a reduced playing schedule.
Top rugby league stars have reportedly been approached by the new league, which will include multiple men's teams and four women's sides based in large metropolitan areas around the world.
Samoa's Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who represents his NRL club in the competition, has confirmed he has had negotiations involving R360.
Ryan Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Payne Haas and Jye Gray are also believed to be considering joining the rebel league.
Eight major rugby union countries, such as Australia, earlier imposed a restriction on players joining R360 playing global fixtures.
“We heard our clubs and we've taken firm action,” stated the league's chief the official.
“Regrettably, there will persistently exist organizations that try to exploit our game for monetary profit.
“They avoid funding in development systems or the growth of players. They merely capitalize on the hard work of existing bodies, putting players at risk of monetary damage while benefiting financially.
“Essentially, they are, imitating the sport.”
R360 is launched by former England World Cup winner Tindall and funded by independent financiers.
Following the potential union bans were declared recently, it stated: “We aim to collaborate together as part of the worldwide fixture list.
“The event is designed with tailored timetables for male and female sides and the organization will release all players for test matches, as included in their agreements.”
The new league will seek approval for its initiatives from World Rugby, rugby union's administrative organization, at its council meeting in 2026.
