The highly anticipated launch of the R360 rugby franchise league has been officially postponed until 2028, organisers have confirmed. The decision represents a significant two-year delay from the original 2026 start date for the globetrotting competition.
Chiefs behind the project, including its public face, former England international Mike Tindall, and City grandee Martin Gilbert, insist they remain “absolutely determined to bring it to life at full scale and with maximum global impact.” The delay comes after the venture faced considerable resistance from major national unions and had not yet received the necessary approval from World Rugby.
Strategic Shift and Mounting Pressure
In a statement, R360 organisers explained that the move is a strategic one. They had drawn up plans for a shortened format in 2026 but concluded that a full-scale launch in 2028 offers a stronger chance of success.
“Launching under compressed timelines would not meet the standards we set for R360, nor would it deliver the long-term commercial impact that the sport deserves,” said Tindall.
The delay occurs against a backdrop of intense opposition from rugby's established bodies. This week, British and Irish Lions chiefs joined major unions, including England’s, in declaring they would ban any player – male or female – who signed with R360. This threat placed particular pressure on female players, with the inaugural Lions Women’s tour scheduled for 2027.
Silver Linings and Future Prospects
The rescheduled 2028 launch does present some strategic advantages. It now allows male players to participate in the men’s Rugby World Cup in the same year without conflict. Furthermore, organisers believe the extra time will create a more favourable environment for all stakeholders.
“A full launch in 2028 offers stronger market conditions, greater commercial certainty, and a significantly more favourable environment for players, fans, partners and the broader rugby community,” R360 stated.
The announcement also served as the first public confirmation of Revolut chair Martin Gilbert’s involvement, naming him as both an investor and the non-executive chairman of the competition.
Despite the unions' opposition causing some players to withdraw, R360 insiders maintain that the project is fully funded and that over 200 top players from the men’s and women’s game had initially accepted lucrative offers to join. They also claim that other internationals have since signed up, indicating continued interest in the breakaway league.
