Leinster scrum-half Jamison Gibson-Park is reportedly weighing a move to the controversial R360 league when his contract expires at the end of the season, according to Rugby Pass.

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At 33 years old, the Ireland international is at a stage in his career where a lucrative R360 deal could be hard to resist.

The IRFU faces a battle to keep one of Ireland’s top stars, with multiple Premiership and Top 14 clubs also said to be interested. But Gibson-Park has reportedly been offered a “massive” deal from R360 and is tempted by the move.

R360 is a franchise-style rugby league featuring 12 teams—eight men’s and four women’s—touring the globe in a “Grand Prix” format.

While organizers claim it won’t clash with major tournaments like the Six Nations or Rugby Championship, the league has faced strong criticism from most international unions.

Last week, all Six Nations teams except Wales, along with New Zealand, Australia, and South Africa, issued a joint warning: players joining R360 will be ineligible for international selection. They urged “extreme caution” for anyone thinking of the leap.

Despite the risks, several top players are reported to have signed pre-contracts—and Gibson-Park appears to be one of them. Could this be a major shake-up for Ireland rugby?

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EDITOR’S PICKS:

2025 World XV

1. Ox Nché (South Africa — Loose-head Prop)

The Springboks’ scrum weapon. Ox Nché’s combination of power, technical precision, and low-body positioning has humbled some of the best tight-heads in the world. He’s been in relentless form, topping performance charts and setting the tone for South Africa’s physical dominance.

2. Dan Sheehan (Ireland — Hooker)

Ireland’s dynamic hooker was a constant bright spark in 2025—scoring tries, leading the set-piece, and offering a constant carrying threat. His Lions tour was standout, even if it ended in controversy with a short suspension. Sheehan’s blend of skill and aggression makes him arguably the most in-form No. 2 in the world.

3. Wilco Louw (South Africa— Tight-head Prop)

It was always destined to be a man in green, and we reckon ‘Quadzilla’ just edged out his teammate Thomas du Toit. Taniela Tupou can be electric on his day, but the key words are on his day — he still struggles to deliver more than half a game of consistent impact.

4. Eben Etzebeth (South Africa — Lock)

A veteran enforcer who still plays with the same bite he had a decade ago. Etzebeth’s line-out presence, defensive steel, and leadership remain vital to every team he represents. A genuine intimidator.

5. Maro Itoje (England — Lock)

Captain of the victorious Lions in Australia, Itoje led with both physicality and composure. His tour performances were tireless—dominating the air, disrupting opposition ball, and setting the emotional tone for the squad.

6. Tadhg Beirne (Ireland — Lock/Back-Row)

A turnover machine and line-out threat, Beirne’s versatility makes him a coach’s dream. Whether at blindside or in the second row, he consistently delivers work rate, breakdown steals, and intelligent support play.

7. Pieter-Steph du Toit (South Africa — Lock/Back-Row)

Known for his tireless tackling and unmatched work ethic, du Toit thrives in the big moments. His ability to shift between lock and flanker adds valuable flexibility to any pack.

8. Ardie Savea (New Zealand — No. 8)

A one-man highlight reel, Savea mixes explosive ball-carrying with clever link play and crucial turnovers. His leadership and athleticism make him indispensable for the All Blacks.

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