🔗 Share this article R360 Athletes Face 10-Season Exclusion from Australia's Rugby League The athlete won 20 caps for the Kiwis before switching representation to Samoa. Australian rugby league's governing body has stated that players who sign with the “rebel” R360 league will be banned for 10 seasons. The new league, set to start in late 2026, is seeking to lure athletes from both codes with substantial agreements and a reduced playing schedule. Leading NRL stars have reportedly been approached by the breakaway group, which will include six or eight men's sides and four women's teams located in large metropolitan areas worldwide. The Samoan the rugby star, who represents the Warriors in the competition, has stated he has had negotiations involving R360. Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Payne Haas and Gray are also reported to be thinking about signing R360. Eight major rugby union countries, such as Australia, earlier declared a ban on players joining R360 appearing in international matches. “We heard our teams and we've taken firm action,” commented the league's chairman Peter V'Landys. “Sadly, there will always be organizations that try to exploit our code for potential financial gain. “They avoid funding in pathways or the development of athletes. They simply exploit the hard work of others, endangering athletes of monetary damage while benefiting financially. “In truth, they represent, copying the game.” R360 is co-founded by retired international Mike Tindall and funded by private investors. After the potential rugby union bans were declared earlier, it commented: “We aim to collaborate together as part of the worldwide fixture list. “The competition is structured with bespoke schedules for men's and women's teams and the organization will allow all athletes for international matches, as written into their agreements.” The new league will apply for endorsement for its proposals from rugby union's governing body, rugby union's regulatory group, at its board session in 2026.