The world of Rugby is in turmoil: a tournament project, inspired by the Indian Premier League (IPL) in cricket, is reportedly in preparation for 2026.
According to information from the South African media The Rapportthis competition could offer pharaonic contracts to 280 players. Salaries could reach $900,000enough to attract the biggest stars of oval ball.
A league of stars with a draft system
Designed for the American market, this project would use the codes of the American leagues, with a draft system and teams created specifically for this tournament.
The objective? Recruit international talent, offer a unique spectacle and above all open rugby to a huge market, which is still little exploited. The best players from the national teams, including the Springboks, could be tempted by these juicy contracts.
But this project already raises questions. If this tournament fits into the current calendar, it could overload the players and potentially shake up the existing championships in Europe and Super Rugby. The big question: where to find a slot in an already extremely busy schedule?
A risk of competition with clubs and federations
The leaders of European clubs and federations undoubtedly view this project with caution. With astronomical salaries, this league risks creating tensions, particularly around the availability of international players.
And if some clubs are worried about losing their stars, this new tournament could also redefine the economy of world rugby by attracting major sponsors.
“The identity of the potential investors is not yet known, nor the date on which the tournament could take place in an already busy schedule“, indicates Planet Rugby.
For the moment, nothing has been confirmed, but the project could well shake up the rugby ecosystem. As a reminder, a new global competition bringing together the best oval nations will begin in 2026.
