Lions ban R360 players: Impact on women’s rugby stars and 2027 tour

The Lions Back Unions and Threaten Exclusion for Players Joining the R360 League

The British and Irish Lions have expressed their support for the unions in their warnings to players considering joining the proposed R360 league. They have announced that those players who decide to participate in said league will also be excluded from future Lions tours. The news reports that several England players are targets of the league, which is led by former England international Mike Tindall. Ellie Kildunne, former World Player of the Year, stated in October that she is “open to anything” ahead of 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 against participating in the breakaway league. The Lions echoed that sentiment on Wednesday.

The Lions’ first women’s tour is scheduled for September 2027, with three test matches against New Zealand.

“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.

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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 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 it can be. With the tour just over a year and a half away, we believe it’s 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 schedules, and prioritize the well-being of the players.”