Premiership expansion plans approved

The RFU has approved the expansion of the Premiership to 14 teams in the 2022-23 season with a temporary pause on relegation. 

It is hoped that the decision will bring some financial stability to the competition after the disastrous effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. 

Chaiman of the Premiership Rugby Investor Board, Nigel Melville, said: 

“Premiership Rugby has worked in collaboration with the RFU and stakeholders across the game to develop the proposals approved today. We thank Council members for their support. 
 
 

“As well as giving support to a world-leading England team, the plan will create a stable platform for the professional game so that clubs can reset and rebuild after the unprecedented financial pressures of COVID. With an agreed structure and expansion plan in place for the next three seasons, we can now focus on creating a more sustainable future, developing our talented home-grown players and bringing an attractive, competitive league to fans. 
 
 

“This is an exciting time for the development of the professional game and there is much for fans to anticipate in the years ahead. After one of the most dramatic ends to a season in Premiership history, we are already looking ahead to the return of Saracens next season and to welcoming a 14th club to the league in a year’s time. Everyone at Premiership Rugby is committed to working with our clubs and all our partners to deliver the most exciting club rugby competition in the world.”