UAR bring fourth professional team into existence

The Unión Argentina de Rugby (UAR) announced on Friday the creation of a new Super Rugby Americas franchise, Litoral. The professional side will be co-managed by the Unión Santafesina de Rugby (Santa Fe), the Unión de Rugby de Rosario (Rosario, the largest city in Santa Fe) and the Unión Entrerriana de Rugby (Entre Ríos).

UAR president Gabriel Travaglini was present at the signing of the commercial contract, expressing his joy over the combined effort to develop a new Argentinian franchise, as stated on the official website of the Súper Rugby Américas.

“This development strengthens not only Argentina, but also rugby throughout the region, because it expands the talent pool, raises the bar, and enhances the spectacle. We are convinced that this addition will enrich the tournament and serve as a driving force to continue driving the growth of South American rugby.”

The expansion will increase Argentina’s player pool, with more than 30 new contracts, extending the professional game into new regions.

Argentina has been heavily invested in developing Super Rugby Americas as a breeding ground for the next Pumas, beginning with Ceibos and Jaguares XV in 2020. Pampas joined in 2023, alongside the rebranded Ceibos – now Dogos XV. The Tarucas were the most recent addition, representing the traditional rugby stronghold of Tucumán.

Súper Rugby Américas president Marcello Calandra was elated with the news, as stated on the Súper Rugby Américas website.

“As organizers of Super Rugby Americas, we are pleased with the confirmation of an eighth franchise, demonstrating that our tournament is on the right path, continuing to develop players for national teams and generating a wide public interest.”

With Litoral’s inclusion, Super Rugby Americas expands to eight franchises: Argentina’s Dogos XV, Pampas and Tarucas, Uruguay’s Peñarol, Brazil’s Cobras, Chile’s Selknam and Paraguay’s Yacaré XV.

The competition will retain its current format, with a round-robin regular season. After 14 rounds, the top four sides progress to single-leg semi-finals.

Peñarol are the current champions. Argentine sides have lifted the trophy twice – Jaguares XV in 2021 and Dogos XV in 2024.