R360 Recruits Subject to 10-Year Suspension from Australia's Rugby League
The rugby star gained 20 international appearances for the Kiwis before transferring loyalty to Samoa.
Rugby league's authority has declared that players who enter the “counterfeit” R360 will be barred for 10 seasons.
The new league, set to start in October 2026, is aiming to attract rugby union and rugby league players with substantial agreements and a reduced playing schedule.
Top rugby league athletes have reportedly been approached by R360, which will feature six to eight men's sides and four women's teams based in key urban centers worldwide.
The Samoan the rugby star, who represents his NRL club in the NRL, has confirmed he has had talks with the new organization.
Ryan Papenhuyzen, Lomax, Payne Haas and Jye Gray are also reported to be weighing up offers from R360.
Eight major rugby union nations, such as Australia, last week announced a prohibition on players joining R360 participating in test matches.
“We heard our franchises and we've responded strongly,” said the league's chief Peter V'Landys.
“Regrettably, there will always be entities that attempt to hijack our sport for potential financial gain.
“They don't invest in pathways or the advancement of athletes. They simply exploit the dedication of others, putting players at risk of economic hardship while profiting themselves.
“They are, in reality, counterfeiting a code.”
R360 is established by ex-England star Tindall and backed by independent financiers.
After the prospective rugby union bans were announced last week, it commented: “We want to work collaboratively as integrated into the global rugby calendar.
“The event is arranged with customized calendars for men's and women's teams and the organization will allow all athletes for global fixtures, as written into their deals.”
The new league will apply for endorsement for its initiatives from rugby union's governing body, union's governing body, at its official gathering in the coming year.
