CVC step up plans to invest in the PRO14

CVC Capital Partners – the private equity firm with a 27 per cent stake in Premiership Rugby – are set to expand their reach by doing likewise in the PRO14.

At a cost of £200m, CVC invested heavily in English rugby in December. They have now begun talks over making the PRO14 the latest piece in their global rugby jigsaw.

CVC’s involvement in the Premiership has led to the 12 clubs currently competing in the division – plus London Irish – handing over their commercial operations to the private equity firm.

Details of CVC’s future involvement in the PRO14 are yet to be confirmed, but their interest is genuine and discussions are ongoing. It is understood CVC’s ultimate aim is obtain a controlling stake in international rugby with the intention of shaking up broadcasting rights in the Test arena.

The company has a history of sporting involvement having been the majority owners of Formula One from 2006 to 2017. CVC took F1 away from its historical European heartlands and introduced more big races outside the continent. That increased the revenue coming into the sport.

It is unclear what plans they may have for the PRO14, but it is no secret the league have been investigating alternative markets in a bid to increase their commercial revenue.

Such a move would undoubtedly boost the coffers of Wales’ four regions who struggle to compete financially with their TOP14 and Premiership rivals.

The Dragons, Cardiff Blues, Ospreys and Scarlets – plus the Welsh Rugby Union – could all desperately do with a cash boost.

The WRU and the regions have been locked in negotiations since last summer over a new Professional Rugby Agreement which will change the landscape of the professional game in Wales.

Chaos has engulfed the game in Wales with all four regions unaware of their playing budgets for next season. It means they are not yet in a position to offer new contracts to their existing players and the recruitment of new squad members has been put on hold.