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4d ago

San Diego and LA Rugby Clubs to Unite as California Legion for 2026 Season

Set against NOLA Gold’s exit the merger aims to forge a statewide franchise that will strengthen professional and youth rugby in Southern California.

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Overview

  • San Diego Legion and Rugby Football Club Los Angeles have agreed in principle to merge into the California Legion, which will begin competing in the 2026 Major League Rugby season.
  • The California Legion will stage home matches across San Diego, Los Angeles and Orange County under a unified franchise model.
  • NOLA Gold has confirmed it will not participate in the 2026 season, reducing Major League Rugby’s lineup from 11 teams this season to nine.
  • Adam Freier, the newly appointed CEO of the California Legion, said the merger will pool resources and talent to advance development from youth leagues through to the professional level.
  • Commissioner Nic Benson said the new franchise will build and connect rugby communities while prioritizing long-term growth and fan engagement in Southern California.