India is launching the Rugby Premier League (RPL), a two-week rugby sevens league in Mumbai, to increase the sport's popularity and identify talent for potential Olympic participation. Managed by GMR Sports, the league features six franchise teams with Indian players and international stars from the World Rugby Sevens Series. Rugby India President Rahul Bose aims to demonstrate rugby sevens' potential in India, with ambitions for an Indian rugby team to reach the Olympics, aligning with the country's bid to host the 2036 Olympics. The RPL's budget has significantly increased, with international players receiving competitive fees. Former USA coach Mike Friday emphasizes the importance of grassroots development for sustained growth.

Representatives from Fiji Rugby Union, World Rugby, Rugby Australia, and Tonga Rugby Union convened with Robin Mitchell (ONOC President and IOC Member) in Fiji to discuss collaboration ahead of Brisbane 2032. Discussions focused on partnerships, high-performance programs for Pacific athletes with Queensland universities and strategies for Rugby World Cups 2027 and 2029. FRU briefed on governance and commercial strategies.