BREAKING NEWS: In an unprecedented move, Rugby Australia and seven other leading rugby nations have issued a stark warning against the proposed R360 competition, declaring that any player who signs with R360 will be ineligible for international selection. This urgent statement, released overnight, comes as concerns mount over the competition’s potential to disrupt the traditional rugby landscape with multimillion-dollar offers aimed at top players.
The joint statement, co-signed by New Zealand, South Africa, Ireland, England, Scotland, France, and Italy, represents a significant backlash against R360, which is set to launch on October 2, 2026. Rugby officials fear that the lure of contracts exceeding $2 million per season could lead to a mass exodus of talent from traditional competitions.
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As a group of national rugby unions, we are urging extreme caution for players and support staff considering joining the proposed R360 competition,”
the statement warns. Officials highlight that while they welcome investments that could evolve the sport, any new competition must not fragment the game or harm its global ecosystem.
The national unions are particularly concerned about how R360 plans to manage player welfare and ensure that athletes can still aspire to represent their countries. “The R360 model appears to be designed to generate profits for a select few, potentially undermining community rugby and player development,” the statement continues.
The risk of being banned from Test rugby is a significant threat aimed at deterring players from pursuing contracts with R360. Rugby Australia has expressed frustration, revealing they have been largely uninformed about the competition’s details, despite reports that discussions have been underway.
Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt has already raised questions regarding the competition’s sustainability, and as players consider their futures, the stakes have never been higher.
As this situation unfolds, rugby fans and players alike are left to wonder what the future holds for the sport. The collective stance of these rugby powerhouses sends a clear message: the integrity of international rugby is at risk, and drastic measures are being taken to protect it.
Stay tuned for more updates as this developing story continues to evolve.
