Lions ban R360 players: Impact on women’s rugby stars.

The British and Irish Lions have expressed their support for the unions’ warnings against players joining the proposed R360 league. They have announced that those athletes who decide to participate in this league will also be excluded from future Lions tours. It is reported that several England players are being considered for this league, which is led by former England men’s international, Mike Tindall. Ellie Kildunne, former World Player of the Year, expressed in October her willingness to consider any option, prior to the planned launch for 2026. The Six Nations unions, with the exception of Wales, along with New Zealand, Australia and South Africa, had already warned players about their participation in the independent league. The Lions joined this stance on Wednesday.

The Lions’ first women’s tour is scheduled to include three test matches in September 2027 against New Zealand.

“As we continue preparations for the inaugural Women’s Lions tour in 2027, the British & Irish Lions wish to state their position on the proposed R360 competition and provide clarity to the players,” the Lions said in a statement.

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“The British & Irish Lions fully support the stance of our constituent unions regarding the proposed competition and will advise that any player who chooses 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 are playing 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 schedules, and prioritize the well-being of the players.”