New global rugby union franchise competition in early stage of development

The league would travel the world like F1.

GAME-CHANGER: The initial funding for the new league is thought to have been provided by an American banker. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile

A new global franchise competition that could change the rugby union landscape is in a very early stage of development, the PA news agency understands.

A league that would travel the world, akin to Formula One, is being mooted and could feature more than 200 players, with a possible launch in 2026 of men's and women's tournaments.