Super Rugby an expensive business
In part three of our fivepart series on Super Rugby, chief executives discuss the plight of the Rebels and the playoff system. By Richard Knowler.
The sands have constantly shifted under Super Rugby since it was formed in 1996. That won’t change.
Teams have been added and axed (anyone remember the Southern Kings?), the rules have been tweaked, the finals format has changed, technology has improved and administrators have arrived and departed.
In the beginning it wasn’t an onerous task for successful teams to fill their stadiums, as punters, especially during the semifinals and finals, scrambled for tickets.
Super Rugby got bloated – it got up to 18 teams – and then went on a diet, as it was reduced to 12. Which is what we have today.
It’s an expensive business, especially during a cost of living crisis which means discretionary dollars are in short supply.
The revelation that the Melbourne-based Rebels had debts of more than NZ$21.4 million means they may not participate in next year's competition. The Rebels’ financial troubles reflect those of other clubs around the world, especially in England where several have hit the wall.
The chief executives of the five New Zealand franchises have been monitoring the Rebels’ situation. If they are rubbed out, it could potentially result in the Buenos Aires-based Jaguares returning to Super Rugby after they were dropped from the competition during the pandemic in 2020.
Stuff asked the bosses of the NZ franchises for their views on the Rebels situation. Whether they are satisfied with the current eight-team playoff model, a contentious issue for some fans, is also up for discussion.
With the Melbourne Rebels entering voluntary administration, and Rugby Australia chief executive Phil Waugh offering no long-term commitment to the club, are you concerned that it will damage the Super Rugby Pacific brand?
Blues CEO Andrew Hore: “It is never easy to see an organisation in financial trouble, particularly the impact on the people. I don’t think it will damage the brand if we continue to advance working as 12 clubs with support from the respective national bodies to make all of the clubs stronger and fan centric.”
Chiefs CEO Simon Graafhuis: “It’s never nice to hear of a club in difficulty, but [we are] not across their position. We know they are confirmed for the coming season, and were competitive last year so expect a competitive side when we play them.’’ Hurricanes CEO Avan Lee: “It’s obviously a tough time for the Rebels and we feel for them. RA have assured us that there is no issue for 2024, but we hope the Rebels will be okay for 2025.”
Crusaders CEO Colin Mansbridge: “Obviously it will have an effect on the competition brand, but there is also no doubt that there is a core underlying competition and brand with Super Rugby Pacific that is special and strong.
“This was only reinforced during our time on the Northern Tour [when the Crusaders played pre-season fixtures against Munster and Bristol]. We had teams and clubs across the UK Premiership and the United Rugby Championship reach out wanting to connect and learn about how we operate, and how the competition here works.
“I’ve experienced, personally, the exceptional job the Rebels have done in their community, and the values and brand they represent. They’ve done a heap of work growing the game in Victoria, especially at a grass-roots level. I wish them all the best.” Highlanders CEO Roger Clark: “It is always concerning to see a club having financial challenges. We are all in this together and we know how hard the business is. Rugby Australia has already stated they are committed to a viable professional team in Victoria so I have confidence this will occur.’’
Are you satisfied with the eight-team playoff system, or would you like it to be reduced?
Blues CEO Andrew Hore: “It works for us now but as we advance as a competition, I could see a six-team play-off working well in time.”
Chiefs CEO Simon Graafhuis: “Happy with the current playoffs, finals rugby always adds an extra element to the contest.”
Hurricanes CEO Avan Lee: “No issue. Like other competitions it gives teams at the lower end of the eight, the chance to topple one of the favourites in the playoffs.” Crusaders CEO Colin Mansbridge: “Look, Super Rugby Pacific isn’t a perfect competition, but as a post-Covid restart, it was fantastic.
“I’d love to see us link with competitions in the northern and southern hemispheres, and this would very likely require some evolution of playoff systems. In saying that, the eight-team playoff system has resulted in some great rivalries emerging with teams scrapping for that eighth spot.”'
Highlanders CEO Roger Clark: “Happy as it is.”
Note: Moana Pasifika declined to participate in this survey.