Rugby union’s breakaway competition R360 delays launch by two years

• Competition will not now begin until 2028

• ‘Decision to shift our launch is strategic’

R360 has delayed the launch of its global franchise league by two years until 2028 amid doubts over its ability to recruit players and the viability of its commercial model.

The rebel league, which was scheduled to run a truncated 12-week season starting next October featuring eight men’s franchises and four women’s teams, is understood to have advised players who have signed pre-contract agreements that they are now null and void, and therefore they are free to sign elsewhere. In an email to players on its books and others who have expressed interest, R360 board member Stuart Hooper said the delay would “strengthen its integrity”.