A new, ambitious global rugby franchise competition is in its early stages of development, and it could dramatically reshape the rugby union landscape. According to sources, the competition is being designed to travel the world in a format similar to that of Formula One racing, bringing together top rugby talent from around the globe. The plan includes both men’s and women’s tournaments, potentially launching in 2026. If realized, the competition could involve over 200 players, significantly expanding the global reach of the sport.
While details remain scarce, it’s understood that initial funding for this competition has been provided by an American backer. However, the project is still in its conceptual phase, and there are no concrete developments as of yet. At this stage, no official announcements have been made regarding teams, locations, or specific logistics for the tournament.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the competition is that players would not have to choose between participating in this new global league and representing their national teams in international rugby. This is a key selling point, as it ensures that players can still compete in high-stakes international Test matches while taking part in the proposed franchise tournament. A season length of around 14 weeks has been suggested, with players potentially earning lucrative six-figure salaries.
Despite the growing interest, some rugby stars are unaware of the competition’s existence. England’s full-back Freddie Steward, for instance, recently expressed surprise when asked about the proposed league, saying it was “news to me.” He admitted he was focused on his upcoming Test match and did not have time to think about such developments. This reaction highlights the early stages of the competition’s rollout and the need for more widespread awareness within the rugby community.
This idea has sparked various reactions, with some enthusiasts concerned about the impact such a competition might have on the sport’s organic development, especially in emerging rugby nations. Critics argue that such a league could divert attention from building strong domestic teams and rivalries, which are the foundation of the sport’s long-term success. The debate continues as the future of this proposed global rugby franchise hangs in the balance.