Rugby Union’s second-tier clubs refuse ‘franchise model’ proposal

Championship Clubs Reject Plans to Join Franchised Second Tier of English Club Rugby

Ambiguity and confusion loom over the future of club rugby in England as championship clubs have unanimously rejected proposals for a franchised second tier called ‘Premiership 2’ set to commence in 2025. The discussions between the Rugby Football Union (RFU) and the eleven second-tier sides aimed at resolving challenges faced by the club game following the demise of Jersey Reds, Wasps, Worcester, and London Irish.

The crux of their objection lies in their desire for a “whole game solution” rather than embracing an entry process lacking meritocracy into a revamped second tier. Additionally, these clubs harbor significant doubts concerning any promotion opportunities to elevate teams into top-flight status. It has been six years since London Welsh made it from non-Premiership shareholder to join English rugby’s elite ranks back in 2014.

“We firmly believe that for our league to thrive and contribute effectively towards solving rugby’s predicaments, inclusive support from the Rugby Football Union is essential,” expressed a joint statement released by all eleven clubs.

The statement further asserts that this league serves vital roles in nurturing England’s game development while acting as an important link between Premiership entities, national team setups, lower-tier divisions across National Leagues and other levels within domestic rugby.

“The only sustainable way forward lies in upholding the integrity and competitive heartbeat of our sport. This approach guarantees the success of future initiatives aimed at enhancing both the quality of play and participation levels across all tiers within English rugby,” they added.

Jersey Reds, reigning champions of the Championship, unfortunately succumbed to liquidation after ceasing trading in late September this year. Despite being crowned victorious, their inability to meet top-flight stadium criteria with a minimum capacity of 10,000 restricted their upward progression.

This hurdle has also affected Ealing, last season’s runners-up who have consistently been second best behind every relegated Premiership side seeking immediate promotion since the 2015-16 season.

“We will always champion meritocracy and fervently believe that exceptional teams should rise to prominence. However, due to existing obstacles hindering progress, this aspiration remains an elusive dream for now. Nevertheless, we commit ourselves tirelessly towards challenging and rectifying these barriers,” emphasized the statement from championship clubs.

The challenges faced by Premiership clubs are acknowledged by these eleven sides who recognize the necessity for a sustainable path forward. As far as National Leagues and lower divisions are concerned, they welcome competition that aligns with their vision – a future predicated on on-field accomplishments.

The decision to reject adopting a franchise system comes with its consequential implications which these clubs fully grasp. Nonetheless, they remain certain that their choice considers key components indispensable for successfully revitalizing domestic rugby while exerting influence over aspects within reach.