Mining magnate Andrew Forrest has launched the new Indo Pacific Rugby Championship to kick off next year.
Forrest is in negotiations with the Australian Rugby Union (ARU) to ensure players who compete in his competition will also be eligible to play Super Rugby and represent the Wallabies.
The billionaire’s actions come after his beloved Western Force were cut from Super Rugby.
Forrest hopes to have six teams in the competition, which is expected to start next August.
The ARU confirmed it was in discussions with Forrest and his Minderoo team.
“ARU is involved in collaborative discussions with Andrew Forrest and his Minderoo team and we look forward to continuing these discussions over the coming weeks,” ARU chairman Cameron Clyne said on Wednesday in a statement.
“We do not wish to comment on the specifics of any proposed new competitions while these discussions are at a preliminary stage.
“ARU remains committed to maintaining a strong rugby presence in Western Australia and will explore all options in this regard.”