R360 Recruits Subject to Decade-Long Exclusion from NRL
The athlete gained 20 caps for New Zealand before transferring loyalty to the Samoan team.
Rugby league's administration has declared that athletes who join the “counterfeit” R360 will be prohibited for 10 years.
The proposed competition, which plans to launch in October 2026, is seeking to lure players from union and league with substantial agreements and a slimmed-down game calendar.
Top National Rugby League stars have reportedly received offers by the new league, which will include multiple men's sides and women's teams located in major cities worldwide.
Samoa's the rugby star, who represents the Warriors in the NRL, has said he has had discussions with the breakaway league.
Ryan Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Haas and Gray are also believed to be weighing up offers from R360.
Several leading union nations, including Australia, earlier imposed a restriction on athletes signing with R360 appearing in global fixtures.
“We heard our clubs and we've taken firm action,” stated Australian Rugby League Commission chief the official.
“Sadly, there will always be organizations that attempt to hijack our sport for potential financial gain.
“They avoid funding in development systems or the advancement of athletes. They simply exploit the hard work of others, putting players at risk of financial loss while benefiting financially.
“In truth, they represent, copying the game.”
The organization is established by ex-England star Mike Tindall and funded by private investors.
Subsequent to the possible union sanctions were revealed earlier, it stated: “We want to work together as part of the international rugby schedule.
“The event is structured with tailored timetables for male and female sides and the organization will release all players for global fixtures, as specified in their contracts.”
The breakaway group will apply for endorsement for its plans from World Rugby, the sport's regulatory group, at its council meeting in the coming year.
