The Lions Back Unions Against the R360 League and Warn Players
The British and Irish Lions have expressed their support for rugby unions in their threats against players who join the proposed R360 league. The organization announced that those players who choose to participate in said league will also be excluded from future Lions tours. Several players from the England women’s team are targets of the league, which is led by former England men’s international, Mike Tindall. The former World Player of the Year, Ellie Kildunne, stated in October that she was “open to anything” ahead of the planned league launch in 2026. The Six Nations unions, with the exception of Wales, along with New Zealand, Australia and South Africa, had already warned players about participation in the breakaway league. The Lions echoed this sentiment.
“The British & Irish Lions fully support the stance of our constituent unions regarding the proposed competition and will advise that any player who decides to participate in R360 will not be eligible for selection for the 2027 tour to New Zealand. This is the first women’s Lions tour, a historic moment for women’s rugby and we want it to be the best possible. With the tour just over a year and a half away, we believe it is important that the players who may be selected play in established leagues that provide certainty about the schedule and the game program. The British & Irish Lions will continue to work in collaboration with their unions to support the growth of our sport at all levels, ensure alignment with international and national calendars, and prioritize the well-being of the players.“As we continue preparations for the inaugural women’s Lions tour in 2027, the British & Irish Lions wish to outline their position on the proposed R360 competition and provide clarity to the players,” the Lions stated in a statement.
British & Irish Lions
