SANZAR targets 'world domination'
There has been much criticism against SANZAR expansion plans, with most believing the new 18-team version that kicks off in 2016 will dilute Super Rugby.
Addressing his first media briefing, a teleconference call, Marinos described his mandate as to ensure the Super Rugby competition structure is sustainable over the long term and provide an attractive platform for the game in the Southern Hemisphere.
Marinos re-joined SANZAR from the South African Rugby Union this week, where he has served as General Manager of Commercial & Marketing for the past five years, having previously served as CEO between 2008-10.
"It is important to ensure our competition is of such a standard that we stay in the top four of the world rankings and continue to be a dominant force on the international stage," Marinos told the media.
The four SANZAR countries – soon to be rebranded to SANZAAR (South Africa, New Zealand, Australia and Argentina Rugby) – are currently ranked one to four on the global standings.
New Zealand lead the pack, followed – some distance behind – by Australia, South Africa and Argentina.
He said they are continuing to look at new markets and new opportunities, although they are "very cautious and aware of what is lying ahead" in the 2016 Super Rugby season – when it expands to 18 teams to include the cash-strapped Southern Kings, coachless Sunwolves from Japan and nameless Argentinean side.
"Since 1996 we have grown, our markets have evolved and our markets have developed," Marinos said, adding: "What is necessary is to have an overriding strategic plan so that any further growth, expansion or penetration into new markets has a sound business plan behind that.
"We have to understand that when you grow your are not just going to grow in very lucrative markets.
"We are also about developing the game, getting a broader reach and raising the standard of the game in other markets."
Marinos said the current expansion is not too dissimilar to what their rivals in the north have achieved with Italy joining the Six Nations.
"Asia and the North Americans are markets that are immature at this moment, but have huge potential.
"We have seen the benefit to Argentina since they have been actively involved in our structures [in the Rugby Championship]."
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