National team rugby remains the pinnacle of the sport, and franchise leagues that do not provide players with the opportunity to participate in it will hardly attract the best talent, according to World Rugby CEO Alan Gilpin, this Tuesday. The global franchise league R360, led by former England center Mike Tindall, is scheduled to launch in 2026, and the media has speculated about million-dollar offers for the best rugby union and league players. Gilpin stated that he was open to dialogue with R360, and that World Rugby welcomes any investment in the sport, as long as it generates a more financially sustainable game for the players and the “overall ecosystem.”
These statements were made during the launch of the ticket sales program for the 2027 Rugby World Cup. Gilpin emphasized the importance of international rugby, highlighting that it is the pinnacle of the sport, and that any new competition must ensure that players have the opportunity to participate in major events. World Rugby, through its Regulation 9, demands the release of players for national team rugby in any recognized competition, and Gilpin stated that the governing body will continue to insist on their availability for all international windows. This includes the British & Irish Lions tours, both men’s and women’s, both Rugby World Cups and the sevens competition at the Olympic Games.Our position is that, no matter what competitions arise, we know that players want to play international rugby.
Alan Gilpin, Chief Executive of World Rugby
