Western Force backer and mining magnate Andrew Forrest has announced his plans for a breakdown rugby union competition following the NSW Supreme Court's decision to uphold the ARU's decision to cut the club from the Super Rugby competition.
Following the court hearing, Forrest told reporters that RugbyWA and the Western Force will be part of a new Indo-Pacific rugby competition, which will initially involve six teams.
"This is the beginning of the new Western Force and the new Indo Pacific rugby competition based on a fast moving game, highly spectator and player friendly, in full formal competition, as well as a new seven a side competition," Forrest said.
"This will include strong encouragement of women’s rugby.
"This new Australasian rugby format will tap deep into the burgeoning interest in rugby that exists amongst countries in the time zone that is aligned with WA.
"We have recruited world class, sport futurists and experienced rugby leaders to design a smart and prosperous new rugby format that will appeal to players, coaches, fans, sponsors and broadcasters.
"Discussions with international commercial partners, member unions, elite players and the WA Government have commenced, and, as soon as we can, we will let the fans know all the exciting details."
Forrest said the details of the competition will be revealed in the coming days.
He also once again called for ARU Chairman Cameron Clyne to resign from his position.
"It’s time for the ARU Chairman to join the honourable path of his Chief Executive and resign and allow the sport to renew," he said.
"We thank the Western Australian Government for standing up to, and staring down, such bullying behaviour and for the cross party support we are receiving for a Senate inquiry into the poor due diligence and atrocious decision making of the ARU Chairman."
The Force entered the Super Rugby competition in 2006 but have only managed a best finish of seventh on the ladder.
