What is Rugby 360, the new rebel league that threatens Rugby Union

ByDavid Mitchell
What is Rugby 360, the new rebel league that threatens Rugby Union

Rugby 360, The competition that is under the sights of Rugby Union, is promoted – together with businessmen – by the former English captain Mike Tindall and search attract new viewers and fight funding problemswith several professional clubs closing their doors due to bankruptcy. All rugby, on Disney+ Premium Plan.

Former All Blacks center Roger Tuivasa-Sheck was reportedly one of the main figures in Rugby 360. The New Zealander is close to signing a contract with the new competition for a deal valued at almost 1 million Australian dollars per season, double what he currently earns with the Rugby League Warriors. The 32-year-old is not the only NRL star in the Rebel League’s sights, with Melbourne Storm’s Ryan Papenhuyzen reportedly also reportedly being approached along with teammate Nelson Asofa-Solomona.

Meanwhile, the rugby unions of New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, Ireland, England, Scotland, France and Italy issued a joint statement confirming that anyone who participates will not be eligible for their teams. While figures such as Michael Cheika, Brian Moore and Jeff Wilson, Mils Muliaina and Justin Marshall were against the new proposal.

What is Rugby 360

  • It is led by former England center Mike Tindall. Also participating: Bath executive Stuart Hooper; Mark Spoors, a Wasserman executive; a US sports marketing and talent management agency; and former LIV Golf attorney John Loffhagen

  • The separatist competition aims to be a level above club rugby

  • It will include eight men’s teams and four women’s teams competing in a condensed season format, with the league being played in “grand prix” style events around the world.

  • The concept is inspired by the Indian Premier League (IPL) and LIV Golf as sporting disruptors

  • The league has already received interest from sponsors from the Premier League, Formula One and the NFL

How Rugby 360 is funded

  • Funding for the competition reportedly includes investment funds dedicated to the sport and private investments from Saudi Arabia, the United States and the United Kingdom.

  • It would have already received all the necessary financing to start in 2026 with the aim of being profitable by 2027

Where will Rugby 360 be held?

  • It has plans to take place around the world, including venues such as Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, the Nou Camp in Barcelona and MorumBIS in Sao Paulo, while New York and Los Angeles have also been mentioned.

When will Rugby 360 be played?

  • It has its sights set on playing the 16-game season in two windows from April to June and August to September, with rounds taking place in a different city each week. This will mean the competition will be played in the southern hemisphere international window and could leave players out of playing for their national teams; In any case, they are unlikely to be eligible due to the positions of the Unions

David Mitchell
David Mitchell

As a passionate sports journalist with over a decade of experience, I strive to uncover the heart and soul behind every game. Supported by a dedicated team of fellow enthusiasts and storytellers, I am committed to delivering insightful and engaging content that connects fans worldwide. Together, we celebrate the victories, challenges, and unifying spirit of sports through every article we craft.