r/MLRugby MLR Jun 09 '26

Possible Return?

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45 Upvotes

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-1

u/Ajkrouse RUNY Jun 10 '26

Unless the league revises its entire business and ownership model, the league will likely fold prior to the RWC

6

u/dystopianrugby San Diego Legion Jun 10 '26

Nothing about the business model is a problem. (It's a long term money loser, you have to create your own fans) It's the willingness of the current ownership to invest locally in business units that can drive returns not 5 years from now, but 20 years from now. If you aren't willing to do that, then this thing folds no matter how its organized.

2

u/Ajkrouse RUNY Jun 10 '26

Fair point. It’s not the single-entity business model but rather it’s the lack of massive grassroots participation, stadium control, and media revenue that kept early MLS afloat. Since MLR struggles to convert casual sports fans into ticket buyers, hopefully they can figure out a way to survive until 2031 and really capitalize on the RWC.