Following last week’s announcement of the new Super Rugby format set to commence in 2016, SANZAR has started its global search for an 18th team.
Then expression of interest (EOI) pack was forwarded to known interested parties on Monday in what signifies the beginning of an exciting chapter that will find the new franchise to join the Kings and a team based in Argentina in the 2016 competition.
The new format is an evolution of the conference structure that was introduced in 2011, allowing for adaptation and expansion to deliver Super Rugby to new markets, fans and audiences as the world’s premier provincial competition.
A final decision on the 18th team will be made in September / October this year and strong interest has already emerged from numerous regions of the world.
SANZAR has invited all interested parties to apply for the EOI pack by clicking here. Collateral will be distributed at SANZAR’s sole discretion and is subject to the signing of a confidentiality agreement.
Click here to download the ‘Future of Super Rugby’ booklet
| EVENT | TIMEFRAME |
| SANZAR announced tender process for 18th Super Rugby team | May 2 |
| Expressions of interest document sent to known interested parties | May 5 |
| Due date for receipt of expressions of interest | June 2 |
| SANZAR to consider and create a shortlist | Mid June |
| Request for proposal document to be circulated to shortlist | Mid June |
| Due date for request for proposal documents | Mid August |
| SANZAR to make decision on 18th Super Rugby team | September-October |
SANZAR reserves the right in its absolute and sole discreation to vary any aspect of the process and/or timeline for determining the location of the 18th team and may decline to forward the EOI or RFP documentation to any interested party at any time.
Interesting times, wonder who the “known interested parties” are.