World 12s organizers say more than 500 players have expressed interest in joining the start-up competition.
Taking inspiration from Indian Premier League (IPL) cricket and The Hundred, World 12s launched in September, promising a rugby 12s format to represent eight new franchises.
They hope to attract 192 of the world’s best players to compete around the world each year over a three-week period.
Making their plans a reality on Thursday, World 12 organizers said top international players could earn more than £250,000 (€292,000) for their participation.
Additionally, they claim that the top three teams at the end of the tournament will win a share of a £1,000,000 (€1.168m) prize pool. In addition, unions releasing players will also be compensated.
Do you want to participate in a fast and exciting celebration of rugby? Next, name your price.
We are excited to release player salary information for the first ever player auction. 👇 pic.twitter.com/AwBDmENWs9
— World 12s (@World12s) November 4, 2021
There are six salary bands for players, based on the minimum salary they would be willing to accept at next spring’s player auction.
They break down as follows:
Category A players: base price of £125,000 (€146,000)
Category B players: base price of £90,000 (€105,000)
Category C players: base price of £70,000 (€82,000)
Category D players: base price of £45,000 (€52.56k)
Category E players: base price of £20,000 (€23,300)
Category F players: base price of £10,000 (€11.68k)
Despite the increased meat on the bone of the World 12, World Rugby does not seem keen on the concept.
After consultation last month with World 12 organizers, World Rugby said it “did not wish to pursue the concept further at this time”, preferring to focus on a more harmonious international calendar.
But World 12s CEO Rowena Samarasinhe appeared adamant on Thursday, saying: “In response to the great interest we have received from potential franchise owners and over 500 current players around the world, we are delighted to confirm the structure. the starting base salary for our inaugural tournament which we plan to hold in the UK next August.
“Since the start of this process, World 12s has emphasized that we believe this tournament will complement the existing XV game, and it aims to help provide players, clubs and unions with financial reward for their participation, as well as benefits of wider development.
“The figures announced today are starting prices for the auction, and players themselves will have the power to determine their base price and at what level they enter the auction.”
“In addition to the financial rewards, the feedback we’ve received from players of all skill levels around the world, past and present, indicates that one of the most attractive benefits of this tournament is the opportunity to play alongside players from all over the world. world, and be coached by one of the best coaches in the world.
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