Player unions warn stars over big-money R360 deals

Stars who are switching to R360 have been instructed by their player unions to seek legal counsel before entering a lucrative start-up competition.

R360 intends to launch in October 2026, offering players lucrative contracts and a less regimented playing schedule to compete against new teams in a world-trotting series of competitions.

Organisers claim to have made offers to former World Cup players from the past to compete in a different competition while having agreements in place with close to 200 men’s players.

However, the International Rugby Players Association (IRPA), a network of player unions in the United Kingdom, France, Australia, New Zealand, and other countries, has urged players to be cautious and to be aware that R360’s full plans are not yet clear.

The statement read, “Detailed information about the competition is still unreachable, and it does not currently have World Rugby regulatory approval.”

R360 is still pursuing options with the IRPA, but it is confident it will not be able to launch without it.

A R360 spokesperson stated that “our global series places players first and we will continue to work closely with stakeholders, including IRPA.”

We’ve spoken with the players’ and their closest advisors directly. We’re really looking forward to the launch next year, which will showcase outstanding male and female talent, excite fans, and advance the game we love.

R360 is anticipated to generate untapped revenue for the current club and provincial competition, according to organizers.

The competition is still requesting World Rugby ratification, which is required at the very least by June.

R360 will have to adhere to the rules governing the player’s release from specific international competitions throughout the year.

The calendar space where R360’s full rosters would be available squeezes because they vary between the different regions and the men’s and women’s games.

The Rugby Championship and the newly launched WXV Global Series both take place in October, the same month as R360’s inaugural event.

If it is unable to persuade the governing body’s member unions to approve the event, R360 has a similar rebel plan to start it without World Rugby’s approval.