Hull KR braced for shortfall of £2m – Hudgell

HULL KR expect to suffer an estimated shortfall of “approaching £2m” in 2021 with owner Neil Hudgell reiterating the club remains in a “precarious position”.

The East Yorkshire club has issued an update to its supporters as it continues to strive to overcome the crippling financial effects of Covid-19.

It will be more than four months out of action when Rovers return behind closed doors against Toronto Wolfpack in Super League on August 2.

In his message to members, Hudgell said: “In my last note I stated that the club was at a critical point in its history.

“That remains to be the case. With so many current uncertainties we remain in a precarious position.

“Financial forecasts show that even with Government support, wage reductions, grants, and furlough payments we stand to be behind forecasts to the tune of £500,000 in 2020.

“Before we factor in loan support and other reductions, in 2021, our estimated shortfall is approaching £2m.

“As you will see, therefore, there is a need, across the board, for prudence of an unprecedented level relating to all aspects of the club from first team, youth development to support staff and stadium investment.

“Of all of those the one that I would want to protect the most is youth development as that is where the long-term focus of the club’s strategy rests.”

Hudgell explained the Robins are accessing the £16m Government loan to help steer them through the coming months but that alone will not suffice.

He praised supporters for their feedback with regards their 2020 membership and – though they are looking at repaying a figure of around £300,000 – thanked them for the fact so few had asked for a refund.

As worrying as issues clearly are, Hudgell concluded: “All that said, you can be assured we are all committed to the cause.

“We remain upbeat about navigating a way through to better days, a prospering club and wider game.

“Out of adversity comes opportunity and that is where I want to concentrate our efforts.”