The World Rugby Council approved a "new aligned international calendar, expanded 24-team men's Rugby World Cup and a top division of 12 teams in a Nations League concept from 2026 that will have promotion and relegation but only from 2030" (IRISH TIMES, 10/24).
The European Court of Justice "will deliver its final verdict on the validity of the European Super League" on Dec. 21. It has been claimed by the ESL and its backers, A22, that UEFA and FIFA "were breaking competition law by threatening to sanction clubs and players who joined the breakaway league" (BBC, 10/24).
Premiership Rugby is "racing to strike a TV rights deal with TNT Sports before the Premier League auction ends" as the broadcaster "pushes for a discount" on its next contract. TNT Sports, which was rebranded from BT Sport earlier this year, has "only one more season to run in its three-year domestic deal" for Premiership Rugby rights (London TELEGRAPH, 10/24).
Longtime Everton Chair Bill Kenwright has died at 78 (London TIMES, 10/24).
More:
- Tax gift for FIFA: France's miscalculation.
- What could more European football mean for planet?
- 777 Partners deal for Everton seen in new light after worrying shift in Europe.
- MLS has attracted a new generation of stars. But will they stay?
