What if rugby had its own version of LIV Golf or the IPL? Well, it seems that idea isn’t just fantasy anymore.
Behind the scenes, something big might be brewing — a global ‘rebel’ rugby league called R360 is gaining traction, and it’s already starting to turn heads in the rugby world.
A Bold Plan Backed by Big Names
This ambitious project is being backed by some pretty influential figures: England World Cup winner Mike Tindall, former Bath rugby boss Stuart Hooper, and the legal mind who helped launch both the IPL and LIV Golf.
That’s no small team — and they’re not just dreaming.
R360 is reportedly gearing up to launch in September 2026, with a 12-franchise format designed to take on the traditional rugby calendar head-on.
Big Contracts and Big Temptations
According to Telegraph Sport, the league has already secured around 160 male players on legally binding pre-contracts.
Yes — signed, sealed, and (almost) delivered. Among those reportedly already on board are four prominent Springboks.
While it’s unlikely that younger Springboks in their prime would leave for this new setup, the league could be incredibly appealing to veteran players — especially those nearing the end of their international careers and looking for one last big payday.
Could Springbok Veterans Be Swayed?
Think of players like Faf de Klerk, now 33, who hasn’t been front and centre for the Boks lately.
Or Willie le Roux, turning 36 this month, possibly wrapping up his final season in green and gold.
Could a move to R360 be their next step? It wouldn’t be too surprising, especially with seven-figure salaries and juicy signing bonuses being thrown into the mix.
The LIV Golf of Rugby?
It’s no secret that LIV Golf disrupted the golf world — just like the T20 cricket leagues did for cricket. R360 might just do the same for rugby.
The new league isn’t shy about its ambition. It wants to target the top 300 male and female players worldwide.
And with financial backing from investors in Saudi Arabia, the US, and the UK, the plan seems more real than ever.
What’s the Impact on Traditional Rugby?
As expected, the potential launch of R360 has sparked serious conversations in the rugby world.
Some see it as a threat to the sport’s existing structures, while others believe it could inject new life — and money — into rugby.
Whatever side you’re on, the reality is that this rebel league is shaping up to be more than just talk.
Would You Watch It?
With all the buzz surrounding R360, fans are left wondering: Would you support a breakaway league? Would it change how you watch the game? And if some of your favourite players joined, would you follow them?
