Hollywood producers in blockbuster bid to buy club

A new consortium interested in buying Cardiff Rugby from the Welsh Rugby Union spoke exclusively to Steffan Thomas

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Cardiff celebrate with Tom Bowen after he dives in to score a try against Connacht on Saturday

A CONSORTIUM led by Hollywood producers has launched a bid to buy Cardiff Rugby from the Welsh Rugby Union - promising a bold revival for the club and an innovative TV project to boost its global appeal.

British-born producer Gareth West, whose credits include the film Ferrari, has partnered with Mark Williams, best known for producing the critically acclaimed Netflix series Ozark and hit movies The Accountant 1 & 2, in the bold move. They are joined by Danish executive Niels Juul, known for his work on major Hollywood productions such as Silence, The Irishman and Killers of the Flower Moon.

Former Cardiff Rugby director Martyn Ryan and Rhino Sport & Leisure CEO Reg Clark are also part of the consortium, which aims to inject significant funds into the club and introduce a scripted television series to raise Cardiff's global profile.

Cardiff entered administration in April and were saved by the Welsh Rugby Union. this consortium is one of six who have expressed an interest in buying Cardiff and have plans to invest significant money into the club.

Professional rugby in Wales is at its most critical stage since the inception of regional rugby in 2003.

In August, the WRU executive put forward what it feels is the optimal solution for the professional game in Wales, which included a reduction from four to two teams.

‘After a month-long consultation with key stakeholders it has presented its findings to the main WRU board who will make a final decision by the end of the month.