Mzansi Rugby League Calls on MyPlayers to Retract Misleading Claims - Official Statement
The Mzansi Rugby League (MRL) was founded to create a new pathway for players, coaches, referees, and communities across South Africa. Our goal is simple: open more doors in rugby, create jobs, and bring professional opportunities to towns and cities that have long been left out of the system.
In recent weeks, statements from SA Rugby and MyPlayers have attempted to delegitimise the MRL, warning players against joining and suggesting our competition is unsafe or unauthorised. These claims are false. They harm our reputation, spread fear among players, and create unnecessary doubt for sponsors who want to support the league.
Today, MRL leadership has confirmed that they have formally filed a defamation suit against SA Rugby and MyPlayers. The summons has been issued and is with the Sheriff for service.
We are not looking for a fight. We are asking for accountability. Every day that these false claims remain uncorrected, the damage to our business, our players, and the communities we serve continues to grow.
We are calling on MyPlayers to retract their statements and issue a clear apology. Our players have the right to choose where they play rugby. Our communities deserve opportunities. And our league deserves to compete fairly without intimidation.
We see ourselves as the lone wolf standing up to the pack leader, not for our own survival, but to make sure the whole pack thrives. By standing up now, we are standing for every young player, coach, and supporter who dreams of seeing rugby opportunities expand across South Africa.
The MRL remains focused on hosting trials, growing the league, and delivering on our mission. The legal process will run its course, but our priority is clear: building a future where more South Africans can benefit from the game we all love.