Baxter Confirms No R360 Contact Amid Global Rugby Speculations

Exeter Chiefs’ Rob Baxter has dismissed recent reports linking his squad to the proposed R360 global rugby competition, stating no formal approaches have been made for players like Henry Slade, Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, or incoming Wallabies star Tom Hooper.

• R360’s Ambitious Vision: The rebel league plans 12 franchises (8 men’s, 4 women’s) aiming to unite elite players worldwide by 2026. Former England captain Mike Tindall serves as its ambassador.
• Premiership Stability: Baxter emphasized confidence in England’s rugby ecosystem:

  “If the Premiership thrives, England rugby thrives. Our players already benefit from RFU central contracts and competitive club opportunities.”

• Unanswered Questions: With reports of NDA-bound negotiations and cross-code interest from NRL stars, Baxter remains skeptical:

  “Until I see concrete facts, it’s just noise. Recruitment continues as normal at Sandy Park.”

Global Rugby Landscape Shifts

R360’s proposed model includes rotating global venues, coinciding with:

• Red Bull’s investment in Newcastle Falcons’ rebranded “The Prem”
• England’s Women’s Rugby World Cup success boosting domestic interest

Baxter’s stance reflects Premiership clubs’ resilience amid rugby’s evolving commercial landscape. With Rugby Championship participants Len Ikitau and Hooper joining Exeter this month, the Chiefs remain focused on domestic campaigns rather than unproven ventures.

Related Developments:

• R360’s lack of player registration framework
• RFU’s central contract system strengthening club-country ties
• Growing competition from TNT Sports’ expanded Premiership coverage