Tier 2 & Tier 3 Rugby’s Future: Rugby Europe, MLR, World Cup 2031/2035 & Growing the Game | w/ What’s All the Ruckus

Rugby TTL hosts Charlie from the What’s All the Ruckus podcast to discuss why they focus on tier two and tier three rugby, the lack of mainstream coverage, and how journalism and podcasting can spotlight overlooked nations and stories. They talk about guest interviews (including Finnley Harrison) and the balance between exposure and “clickbait” via outlets like The Ruck. The conversation explores where tier two/three rugby could be in 2, 5, and 10 years, the limits of the Nations Cup, the importance of Tier 1 ‘A’ sides, and the need for better calendars, promotion/relegation clarity, and marketing. They cover MLR stability, Super Rugby Americas growth and broadcast access, Rugby Europe Super Cup funding, potential competition restructuring, and the potential impact of USA 2031 and Spain 2035 World Cups.

00:00 Podcast Collaboration Intro
00:44 Why Cover Tier Two
01:56 Grassroots Sports Magic
03:12 Guests And Ruck Debate
06:26 Interviewing Finnley Harrison
08:18 Future Of Tier Two Rugby
09:27 Nations Cup And B Teams
13:21 USA Rugby And MLR Reset
15:48 Super Rugby Americas Growth
19:26 2035 Spain World Cup Dream
21:37 Rugby Europe Super Cup Funding
24:31 Restructuring Rugby Europe
26:08 Fixing Tier Two Calendar
27:10 League Model Proposal
28:28 Travel And Notice Boost
29:27 Showcase Friendlies Examples
32:21 Marketing Beyond Rugby Bubble
37:14 Changing Rugby Perception
40:55 Atmosphere Pricing Lessons
43:59 Favorite Guests Stories
47:52 Ultimate Guest Dreams
49:56 Where To Find The Pod
51:47 Final Thanks And Signoff