Amazon is understood to be poised to secure the rights deal for the proposed World League concept, which has caused such a global storm of controversy.
The giant technology company is seeking to build a sports broadcasting portfolio and sources have indicated that — in association with IMG — it is prepared to invest heavily in the vision of an annual, global Test event, built around the Six Nations and Rugby Championship.
However, there is some way to go before agreements are reached, such has been the scale of the backlash following reports of a ring-fenced, 12-nation event, with the Pacific Island sides and others locked out.
Bill Beaumont plans to meet in order to broker a consensus about the World League proposal
World Rugby chairman Bill Beaumont revealed on Sunday that he is convening a meeting in Dublin later this month, to be attended by chairmen and chief executives from all Tier 1 countries as well as Fiji and Japan, plus player representatives. The aim is to broker a consensus; to cut through all the self-interest and division.
Beaumont spoke about stakeholders with ‘differing views’: ‘Only by working together can we achieve something truly impactful in this important area for rugby’s future global growth.’
The impression earlier in the week was that true growth was the last thing on the minds of the game’s top officials, as it was reported that they wished to create an elite tournament without promotion or relegation.
While Japan and the USA were earmarked for inclusion, there was justifiable uproar about the lack of places — or early access opportunities — for Fiji, Samoa, Tonga and Georgia. At least Beaumont’s intervention suggests Fiji are regarded as part of the vision. Quite right, too — they are ranked ninth in the world, four places above the USA, who lost at home to Uruguay on Saturday.
Japan and USA were earmarked for inclusion, but not the likes of Fiji, Samoa, and Georgia
Heritage and talent should be considered ahead of commercial factors. The likes of Fiji would attract neutral viewers; that is how they would pay their way. Rugby’s much-trumpeted core values would be shot to pieces if they form a cosy cartel of the wealthy and pull up the drawbridge. Samoa, Tonga, Georgia and various emerging nations around the world must have the chance to break in on merit.
Certain countries in the Six Nations are thought to be opposed to this. Such an anti-expansion defence of the status quo must be exposed, condemned and overcome. This sort of small-minded, selfish, mentality will prevent rugby from realising its potential.
Wales beating England prompted an outpouring of national euphoria, but for those with an eye on the overall wellbeing of Welsh rugby, the comedown was swift.
Below the surface, all is not well. An overhaul of the regional structure is looming and the Ospreys are fighting for their lives. This seems perverse.
Over the years, the Swansea-based region have exceeded their domestic rivals in terms of winning
