Rugby’s new world order as merger looms large

RUGBY UNION could be set for a major post-pandemic shake-up – with the Six Nations moving into April and the launch of a new European League. Talks between Six Nations and Rugby Championship organisers over aligning the northern and southern hemisphere seasons have progressed, while the prospect of changes at club level grew when private equity company CVC bought a stake in the Pro14 yesterday. The £115million deal means the venture capitalists now own minority shareholdings in both the Premiership and Pro14, giving them leverage to merge the leagues into one with wider appeal to broadcasters. Both moves could be highly significant for the future shape of the game. The Six Nations and the southern hemisphere SANZAAR nations issued a joint statement yesterday committing to pushing on with negotiations that could move the Six Nations from its winter slot into March and April. The northern hemisphere summer tours could also be switched to the autumn.

The statement read: “A further consultation process will commence as all parties work together towards an aligned global calendar that can deliver

a clear and coherent narrative.

“The Nations, with other key stakeholders, remain open to shape the options developed in an effort to resolve an issue that has held the game back for years.” CVC’s attempt to buy a £300m stake in the Six Nations is on hold because of the pandemic but the company have bought a 28 per cent chunk of the Pro14.

Their investment will ease financial problems caused by the shutdown in Wales, Scotland, Ireland and Italy, who become Celtic Rugby members in the deal.

WRU chief executive Martyn Phillips said: “CVC’s commitment is hugely encouraging and this investment is great news for Welsh rugby, although Covid-19 will continue to have a significant impact.” The end game for the opaque CVC is unclear even to the Unions and clubs. A five-year plan due to be presented to the Premiership before the pandemic has not yet arrived.

However, the addition of the Pro14 to their portfolio would appear to bring an expanded joint league closer.