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GMR Sports, a pioneer in the Indian sports industry, has entered into a historic 10-year strategic partnership with Rugby India, the national governing body for rugby in the country. Together, they are set to launch the Rugby Premier League (RPL) in 2025, a bold initiative that will mark one of the world’s first franchise-based rugby leagues. The RPL will feature six city-based teams and will showcase top-tier talent from rugby's leading nations across the globe.
This partnership signals a major step forward for GMR Sports as it extends its legacy of innovation and excellence into the rapidly growing sport of Rugby 7s, renowned for its speed and dynamic gameplay.
GMR Sports' Vision for Indian Rugby
Speaking on the monumental partnership, Mr. Kiran Kumar Grandhi, Chairman of GMR Sports, shared his enthusiasm for the project: "At GMR Sports, we believe in driving the future of sports in India by creating platforms that inspire athletes and fans alike. The Rugby Premier League is not just a league—it is a movement to bring world-class rugby to India while fostering grassroots development. Partnering with Rugby India reflects our commitment to creating opportunities and setting benchmarks for excellence in every sport we touch. We are excited to be at the forefront of this exciting new chapter in Indian sports."
The Rugby Premier League promises to offer thrilling action for fans while also laying a strong foundation for the growth of rugby in India. The league will provide young Indian players exposure to international rugby talent, high-quality coaching, and a professional competitive environment. This initiative is designed to create a sustainable ecosystem for rugby in the country.
Transforming Indian Rugby: A Game-Changer
Mr. Rahul Bose, President of Rugby India, emphasized the transformative potential of the Rugby Premier League:
"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. Fans can expect nothing less than world-class rugby action that will inspire the next generation of athletes in our country."
This new league is poised to become a significant catalyst for rugby’s development in India, offering a platform for domestic players to sharpen their skills while elevating the sport's visibility to new heights.
GMR Sports Moves Up the Value Chain
In addition to managing sports franchises, GMR Sports is now expanding its role within the business of sports by managing leagues and sports intellectual properties. Mr. P. K. S. V. Sagar, President of GMR Sports, explained: *"GMR Sports has always championed innovation in sports, from cricket to Kabaddi and Kho Kho. 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."*
The partnership with Rugby India represents a new milestone for GMR Sports, which is determined to push the boundaries of Indian sports by bringing a world-class rugby league to the nation.
What’s Next for the Rugby Premier League?
Excitement is already building as the league prepares for its debut. In the coming weeks, details about the city-based franchises, ownership structures, and international coaching staff will be unveiled, promising to build anticipation for the inaugural season of the Rugby Premier League.
Mr. Sagar concluded: "Our collaboration with Rugby India, a dynamic and excellence-driven organization, marks an exciting new chapter for both Rugby India and GMR Sports. Stay tuned as we unveil the league’s details in the coming weeks—it’s going to be an extraordinary event to look forward to another world-famous sport coming to India."
With the official launch of the Rugby Premier League set for 2025, the future of rugby in India looks brighter than ever.
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