Major League Rugby and the Ligue National de Rugby in France are looking to collaborate.

LNR runs the Pro D2 and the French Top 14, while Major League Rugby is entering into its second season as North America’s professional men’s league.

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According to an announcement today, MLR and LNR are in negotiations to find a way to work together. 

“Both institutions recognize the potential of an international partnership to spark growth, drive value for each organization, and ultimately accelerate rugby’s growth on the global stage,” said the announcement.

The two leagues are looking for a variety of areas of collaboration, including media, player and referee development, and commercial areas.

Major League Rugby players have already made an impression on overseas teams, with Bryce Campbell (London Irish) and Paul Lasike (Harlequins) getting contracts in Europe, and Mikey Sosena-Fafai of San Diego now playing with Auckland in New Zealand.

Major League Rugby will need to continue to be successful for commercial reasons, but that success could see some players go elsewhere. A partnership with LNR could make player movement a little easier, but recruiting from France a little easier, too.