GMR Sports, the sports arm of India’s GMR Group, and the Rugby India governing body have entered into a 10-year strategic partnership to launch a new domestic competition.
The two parties have collaborated to create the Rugby Premier League (RPL), which is set to commence in 2025.
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The league will feature six city-based teams with players from “major rugby countries.”
The RPL will be one of the world’s first franchise-based rugby leagues and be played under a rugby sevens format.
PKSV Sagar, president of GMR Sports, said: “With the Rugby Premier League, we are now moving up in the value chain in the business of sports, from managing sports franchises to managing leagues and sports IPs; we are excited about this partnership with Rugby India to establish a world-class venture as the commercial partner for the league's operations.
“Our collaboration with Rugby India marks an exciting new chapter for both Rugby India and GMR Sports.”
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By GlobalDataThe city-based franchises and ownership details will be unveiled in early February.
Rahul Bose, president of Rugby India, added: “The Rugby Premier League is a game-changer for rugby in India. With World Rugby’s support and GMR Sports’ expertise, we are set to deliver a league that showcases the finest talent and professionalism.”
GMR Group has been further stepping up its sports activity and recently acquired English county cricket side Hampshire to add to its ownership of the Delhi Capitals Indian Premier League.
