Prem Rugby to seek investors if RFU backs franchise plan

Prem Rugby is planning to launch a tender process to secure external investment in the competition after it has received formal approval from the Rugby Football Union to become a closed franchise league, which it expects will happen next year.

- Matt Hughes

The English top division engaged the investment bank Raine Group and the accountancy firm Deloitte to conduct a review of the sport's finances and potential funding options this year, and is preparing to go to market in the second quarter of 2026.

The Prem sold 27% of its commercial rights to the private equity firm CVC Capital Partners for around £200m six years ago, and will seek a further cash injection after a turbulent few years that resulted in three of its former clubs - Wasps, London Irish and Worcester Warriors - filing for bankruptcy.

The New York-based Raine is understood to have attracted several inquiries from American investors looking to buy into English sport during its review, with interest in rugby expected to grow further before the 2031 World Cup, which will take place in the US.