🔗 Share this article R360 League Athletes Subject to 10-Season Ban from Australia's Rugby League The rugby star earned 20 caps for New Zealand before transferring loyalty to the Samoan team. The NRL's governing body has announced that players who enter the “breakaway” R360 league will be prohibited for 10 years. R360, set to start in late 2026, is hoping to draw players from union and league with lucrative deals and a reduced game calendar. Top rugby league athletes have reportedly been approached by R360, which will feature six or eight men's teams and four women's teams based in major cities worldwide. Samoa's Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who plays for the Warriors in the competition, has said he has had talks with R360. Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Haas and Gray are also believed to be considering joining the rebel league. Eight major union countries, including Australia, recently imposed a ban on athletes signing with R360 playing test matches. “We heard our clubs and we've taken firm action,” said ARLC chairman Peter V'Landys. “Sadly, there will continually be entities that attempt to hijack our code for monetary profit. “They avoid funding in development systems or the growth of athletes. They merely capitalize on the dedication of existing bodies, putting players at risk of economic hardship while gaining personally. “Essentially, they are, imitating the sport.” The organization is established by ex-England star Tindall and funded by independent financiers. Following the possible union bans were revealed recently, it said: “We seek to cooperate in partnership as integrated into the international rugby schedule. “The competition is structured with tailored timetables for both genders and the organization will release all players for test matches, as specified in their contracts.” The new league will seek approval for its initiatives from World Rugby, the sport's governing body, at its council meeting next year.