London: For R360 - the rebel circuit head-hunting rugby's top players for a divisive globe-trotting franchise league - questions are mounting. Not least from World Rugby.
According to BBC, questions around logistics and compliance are at the forefront. Which stadiums will host matches? Which doctors will be connected to the teams? What are their credentials? An R360 spokesperson stated over the weekend, "Everything remains on track. We've been pleased to provide a significant amount of information to World Rugby in relation to regulatory matters and respect the confidentiality of their processes. We look forward to submitting our full plans ahead of their next session."
However, the delay in obtaining World Rugby's endorsement has fueled further speculation. Did R360 underestimate World Rugby's requirements? Can the league proceed with such a significant issue unresolved so close to its planned kick-off? If not in 2026, would 2027 be feasible given the Rugby World Cup's dominance? The possibility of R360's failure looms as questions about its viability continue to surface.
R360 remains optimistic. A senior figure from the start-up claims that if the World Rugby Council's September meeting had been scheduled a few weeks later, all necessary information would have been ready. Background work persists on securing talent, venues, and broadcasters. Reports suggest that more than 160 male players have signed up, contingent on the league's successful launch. R360 is closing in on their target of 200 male players, with at least 10 having played for England.
Critics argue that R360 will be filled with veterans seeking a pre-retirement payday, but sources have informed BBC Sport that recruitment has been of high quality, with 75% of sign-ups having played Test rugby in the past two seasons. A timeline for a tournament launch event is expected soon, but without World Rugby's ratification, the league faces hurdles.
World Rugby's approval would provide R360 access to elite officials, anti-doping infrastructure, and a legal framework, enhancing its legitimacy and allowing recruits to maintain their Test careers. National unions like New Zealand, England, Ireland, and France prefer domestic-based players, making R360's approval vital for players' international aspirations.
R360's current plan involves running from April to June and August to September, conflicting with existing tournaments. Without player release guarantees, ratification remains elusive. While R360 prefers World Rugby's approval, an independent operation remains an option, though it would be more costly and divisive.
R360 claims to be fully funded, with investors for each of its 12 teams. The venture aims to capitalize on the gap between international and club rugby, capturing the "missing millions" in audience and revenue. The 2023 Rugby World Cup was a record-breaking event, but club rugby struggles with viewership and financial losses.
Despite skepticism from figures like Andrew Georgiou of Discovery's European sports division, R360 believes its innovative format, with cosmopolitan squads playing globally, will benefit the sport and its investors. Unlike LIV Golf, R360 lacks Saudi Arabian state funding, relying on diverse investments to meet costs below billion-dollar estimates.
The skepticism extends to broadcasting, with questions about R360's ability to maintain consistent scheduling. While R360 may face challenges converting promises into reality, its substantial backing and momentum set it apart from previous failed ventures like the World 12s and World Rugby Corporation. The path to fruition remains complex, but R360 is determined to navigate the hurdles ahead.