🔗 Share this article R360 League Recruits Face 10-Season Ban from Australia's Rugby League Roger Tuivasa-Sheck won 20 test matches for the Kiwis before transferring representation to the Samoan team. The NRL's authority has stated that athletes who join the “breakaway” R360 competition will be prohibited for 10 years. R360, scheduled to begin in 2026, is aiming to attract players from union and league with hefty contracts and a reduced game calendar. Prominent rugby league athletes have reportedly received offers by the new league, which will involve six to eight men's teams and four women's sides located in major cities around the world. Samoa's the player, who is with New Zealand Warriors in the NRL, has confirmed he has had discussions with R360. Ryan Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, Payne Haas and Jye Gray are also believed to be considering joining the new competition. A group of rugby union nations, including Australia, earlier declared a prohibition on R360 recruits appearing in international matches. “We heard our clubs and we've acted decisively,” said the league's head the official. “Regrettably, there will always be entities that try to exploit our game for monetary profit. “They avoid funding in pathways or the advancement of athletes. They merely capitalize on the efforts of other organizations, putting players at risk of economic hardship while profiting themselves. “They are, in reality, copying the game.” R360 is launched by retired international Mike Tindall and supported by private investors. Following the possible union bans were revealed last week, it said: “We want to work in partnership as integrated into the worldwide fixture list. “The event is structured with bespoke schedules for male and female sides and the organization will release all players for international matches, as written into their agreements.” The breakaway group will request authorization for its plans from the international authority, rugby union's regulatory group, at its council meeting in 2026.