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

The Lions Back Unions and Threaten Players Joining the R360 League

The British and Irish Lions have expressed their support for the unions in their warnings against players joining the proposed R360 league. They have announced that those players who decide to participate in this league will not be eligible for future Lions tours. The news reveals that several players from the England women’s national team are targets of this league, which is led by Mike Tindall, a former England international player.

I’m open to anything

Ellie Kildunne, former World Player of the Year

The Six Nations unions, with the exception of Wales, along with New Zealand, Australia and South Africa, had already warned players about the risks of participating in the league. The Lions have joined this position.

The first women’s Lions tour is scheduled for September 2027, with three test matches against New Zealand. In a statement, the Lions expressed their position regarding the R360 competition and clarified their position for the players.

• “The British & Irish Lions 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 to be selected for the 2027 Tour to New Zealand.

This is the first women’s Lions tour, a historic moment for women’s rugby and we wish it the best. With the tour just over a year and a half away, we believe it is important that 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.