Mumbai, 6th June, 2025: The inaugural edition of the Rugby Premier League proudly welcomes one of India’s largest conglomerates, GMR Group, as the Title Partner for this first-of-its-kind league in the country. Organised by Rugby India in collaboration with GMR Sports, Season 1 of the Rugby Premier League will be held in Mumbai from June 15 to June 29 2025.
One of the most respected Indian multinational conglomerates with focus on infrastructure development, GMR has long maintained a deep association with sports. Both in India and internationally, GMR has played a vital role in strengthening the sporting ecosystem through meaningful partnerships and grassroots initiatives.
The partnership between the Rugby Premier League, the first ever franchise-based Rugby 7s tournament in the world, and GMR reinforces the dedication towards elevating the profile of rugby in India. The coming together of the two powerhouses is set to take rugby to newer audiences, and aims to inspire and attract a new generation of young athletes towards one of the oldest sports in the world. The inaugural edition of GMR RPL will feature six founding franchises, who will battle it out for the championship title.
Season 1 of the much-awaited GMR Rugby Premier League kicks off on June 15, with a final scheduled on June 29, in Mumbai at the Shahaji Raje Bhosale Sports Complex (Andheri Sports Complex). The Rugby Premier League has opened its doors to marquee international players from powerhouse Rugby 7s nations, including New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, Fiji, Argentina, Great Britain, Ireland, USA and Spain. That apart, 18 international players from Canada, Hong Kong, and Germany will also feature in the tournament, enhancing the league’s competitive depth. GMR RPL Season 1 will feature 30 Indian players selected from an auction pool of 71.
Speaking on the occasion, Rahul Bose, President, Rugby India, said, “Rugby India and the Rugby Premier League are delighted to have GMR join us as the Title Sponsors for what is a very important opening season of the tournament. This partnership only further strengthens the mutual belief and optimism about the future of Rugby in India, and we are confident that this partnership will stand the test of time.”
About Rugby India
Established in 1998, Indian Rugby Football Union (IRFU), or commonly known as Rugby India, is the official governing body for the sport of rugby in India. Awarded the Best Sports Federation for Development, by FICCI at the 2024 Indian Sports Awards, IRFU is recognized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India, it is a full member of World Rugby, Asia Rugby, and the Indian Olympic Association. As the sole authority for all formats of the game – including Rugby 15s, Rugby 7s, Touch, Tag, Wheelchair Rugby, and more – Rugby India promotes inclusivity and participation across all genders, age groups, and skill levels. With 26 affiliated state associations and active representation in platforms such as the National Games, School Games Federation of India, Khelo India University Games, Khelo India Youth Games and ASMITA Women’s Leagues, Rugby India is committed to building a strong, diverse, and competitive rugby ecosystem nationwide.
About GMR Sports
Founded in 2008, GMR Sports represents the sports sector of the GMR Group. It is driven by a mission to connect people, nurture talent, and establish sports as a powerful unifying platform both within India and globally. Committed to becoming a respected and influential brand in the sports industry, GMR Sports embarked on its journey with cricket, chosen for its widespread appeal as the ideal starting point for the Group’s first-ever sports venture.
The journey began with the Delhi Capitals, the city’s first-ever cricket franchise and the sole representative of India’s national capital in the IPL. As part of its mission to broaden its impact, GMR Sports soon diversified its portfolio, adding sports that resonate deeply with the Indian community. The company now owns UP Yoddhas in the Pro Kabaddi League and Telugu Yoddhas in the Ultimate Kho Kho League, additionally, has recently ventured into the league by acquiring rights to the Rugby Premier League, reinforcing its dedication to supporting regional talent and promoting indigenous sports. Expanding its global footprint, GMR Sports now holds franchises in international markets, including Dubai Capitals in ILT20, Pretoria Capitals in SA20, Seattle Orcas in Major League Cricket (US), and Hampshire County Cricket Club in England. Through these initiatives, GMR Sports continues to strengthen its presence on the world stage.