R360 Competition Recruits Face Decade-Long Ban from NRL
The rugby star won 20 international appearances for the All Blacks before switching allegiance to the Samoan team.
Rugby league's administration has declared that players who sign with the “counterfeit” R360 league will be barred for 10 years.
The new league, set to start in 2026, is seeking to lure athletes from both codes with substantial agreements and a condensed fixture list.
Prominent NRL players have reportedly been approached by the new league, which will feature multiple men's clubs and four women's teams operating from key urban centers around the world.
The Samoan the rugby star, who plays for the Warriors in the league, has stated he has had discussions with the new organization.
Ryan Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Haas and Gray are also said to be weighing up offers from the new competition.
Several leading rugby union teams, including Australia, last week announced a restriction on athletes signing with R360 participating in test matches.
“We've listened to our clubs and we've taken firm action,” said ARLC chairman the official.
“Unfortunately, there will always be groups that try to exploit our sport for monetary profit.
“They fail to contribute in development systems or the development of talent. They only leverage the dedication of others, jeopardizing careers of monetary damage while benefiting financially.
“In truth, they represent, copying the game.”
The league is launched by former England World Cup winner Tindall and funded by private investors.
After the possible rugby union sanctions were announced earlier, it commented: “We want to work together as integrated into the worldwide fixture list.
“The series is structured with customized calendars for male and female sides and we will release all players for international matches, as specified in their deals.”
The breakaway group will seek approval for its proposals from rugby union's governing body, the sport's governing body, at its board session in 2026.
