RFU Statement: Worcester Warriors

The RFU have released the following statement regarding the funding and potential new ownership of Worcester Warriors.

"The RFU, Premiership Rugby and DCMS has been seeking assurances from the Worcester Warriors owners regarding funding and potential new ownership proposals for several weeks.

"We are grateful to the staff at Worcester Warriors for their hard work in being able to provide the required information to allow the games to go ahead last weekend and in the week ahead.  The RFU has set the same conditions for the matches this weekend to go ahead as were in place for the previous weekend. 

"These must be met by noon on Thursday 22 September as, in particular, Newcastle Falcons will be travelling on Friday 23 September.

"However, all parties remain concerned that the lack of available funds will not allow the club to be sustainable over the long term.  In particular, the RFU is aware that insurance cover is only in place until midnight on Monday 26 September.  

"Therefore, the RFU has written to Worcester Warriors to confirm they will be suspended from all competitions, including the Gallagher Premiership, Allianz Premier 15s and Allianz Cup if the club cannot evidence insurance cover in place, availability of funds to meet the monthly payroll, and a credible plan to take the club forward, by 5pm on 26 September."