Cheika Doubts R360 Durability: Rebel Rugby League in Check

Michael Cheika Evaluates the Rebel Rugby League R360

Former Wallabies coach Michael Cheika has expressed his support for the idea of a disruptive league in the world of rugby, although he is not completely convinced of the long-term potential of the R360 competition, which has generated great expectation. Announced last year, the rebel rugby league R360 has made headlines ever since. Recently, it was reported that up to 160 players from around the world have signed provisional contracts, including prominent Springboks players and ten English players. However, there is still much uncertainty surrounding the competition, including the lack of sponsorships, broadcast agreements, and details about funding. According to reports, the league is backed by entities in the United States and the United Kingdom, but no specific details have been confirmed. R360, which is promoted as a Grand Prix-style competition, plans to have between eight and twelve franchises, visiting 16 venues worldwide and featuring 300 male players. The league is scheduled to launch in September of next year. Despite the lack of clarity, Rugby Australia and World Rugby are taking this rebel league as a real threat. RA boss Phil Waugh met with R360 representatives during the recent British and Irish Lions series.

I think rugby seems to be at a propitious moment for a revolution.
Michael Cheika

Cheika has expressed doubts about the viability of the league, especially due to the absence of a broadcast agreement. The world rugby coach of the year in 2015 has also been contacted to join the league. Currently unemployed after leading the Leicester Tigers to the final in June, Cheika has not revealed whether he would accept an offer from R360. In addition, Cheika has indicated that his chances of coaching rugby in Australia appear to have ended, and he has focused his attention on the possibility of coaching in the NRL.