Earlier today World Rugby met in Dublin to discuss the proposed World League and overall future of the game of rugby.
The aim of the federation is to create a strong and sustainable international competition with a financial platform by which emerging nations can not only develop but compete at the highest level of the game.
During the meeting with international rugby’s major stakeholders, the three-division format that includes promotion and relegation was unveiled.
The competition would be supported with a record commercial partnership with the sports marketing company Infront. This includes a guarantee of around £5-billion investment over the first 12 years.
This model covers both media and marketing rights but there is no sale of equity meaning the overall control of the tournament remains with the unions, current major competitions and World Rugby.
Following positive meetings with rugby’s major stakeholders in Dublin today, here is the proposed Nations Championship format. pic.twitter.com/7lOzBgHWC7
— World Rugby (@WorldRugby) March 14, 2024
Following the backlash of the original proposal from last September, World Rugby has altered and added some key objectives for the future.
Firstly, they have removed the proposed semi-final stage meaning that players will only play a maximum of 12 Nations Championship matches, not 14.
Secondly, they have made a commitment to work with international rugby players and leading club competitions to optimise the model.
Lastly, they have made a commitment to invest in a Women’s Nations Championship in order to accelerate the global competitiveness of the women’s game.
Speaking after the meeting World Rugby chairman Bill Beaumont noted how the new proposals could benefit the game if all involved are included in creating it.
“We are encouraged that the format revisions and robust financial model has been well-received. Everyone, not just the established teams, will benefit, accelerating the development and competitiveness of the global game,” he said.
He also addressed how this period of time
is vital for the future of the sport.
“This is a pivotal time for the game. Only by keeping the best interests of the global game at heart will we be able to achieve something truly impactful for the future success and sustainability of the game,” he added.
The reaction seems to be more positive this time around to the proposals, but we will have to wait and see what the players think and if they are willing to go ahead with the new format.
