African clubs in mix for Europe
MOVING to European competition will be a live option after the Super Rugby deal expires in 2020, according to the boss of South Africa’s top club.
Lions president Kevin de Klerk said the prospect of South Africa’s Super sides defecting to the northern hemisphere is a very real prospect due to market forces.
SANZAAR rejected reports that African teams could leave Super Rugby after this season, which would cost South African Rugby Union millions for breaking the broadcasting contract that was renegotiated last year when the tournament was cut from 18 to 15 teams for the same amount of money.
But once that deal expires, African teams will certainly weigh up a move to Europe given their broadcasting deals are worth millions more.
“Maybe ultimately, the millions of pounds on offer in Europe will influence the decision,” de Klerk said.
“There is nothing concrete at the moment. When this broadcasting deal comes to an end, there’s going to need to be some close negotiations with SANZAAR.
“From my point of view, I would like to see South Africa remain in Super Rugby, but the European currency is making it difficult.”
De Klerk said there was no chance the Lions – who have made the past two grand finals and sit on top the South African conference – would defect from Super Rugby before this broadcast deal expires, and believes none of the other African sides would.
A SANZAAR meeting will be held next week, during which the four unions including Rugby Australia will discuss options for the future of the alliance.
If South Africa abandons Super Rugby, they would still hope to retain a relationship with Australia, New Zealand and Argentina to play in The Rugby Championship.
Television deals for European tournaments have soared in recent years, allowing English and French clubs to sign some of the best southern hemisphere players in the world to exorbitant deals.
A report in Wales suggested South African clubs would start moving north after this season.
SANZAAR chief executive Andy Marinos said the organisation was working on a 12year plan to remain partners until 2030.