Summary
Player unions are advising rugby players to get legal advice before signing with the new R360 rugby competition, set to start in October 2026. R360 is offering big contracts and plans to have a global series, but it lacks approval from World Rugby. The competition may affect players' eligibility to play for their national teams.
Key Facts
- R360 is a new rugby competition scheduled to start in October 2026.
- The competition offers large contracts and a less demanding game schedule.
- Around 200 male players have been approached, along with some from the recent women's Rugby World Cup.
- The International Rugby Players Association advises players to seek legal advice before joining R360.
- R360 does not have regulatory approval from World Rugby yet.
- Without World Rugby's approval, players might become ineligible for national team selection.
- The competition is negotiating with various stakeholders but plans to proceed even without union support.
- R360 could conflict with existing international rugby events scheduled in October.
