RFU set to confirm radical restructure of English rugby
BBC World
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Rugby Football Union (RFU) is set to approve a significant restructure of English rugby, marking a departure from traditional promotion and relegation systems. Under the new framework, the Premiership will expand from 10 teams to 12 by 2030, with additional room for growth based on club performance and off-field criteria. This overhaul aims to elevate standards across the sport and attract more investment.
The current system, which has seen no relegations since 2020 due to Saracens' points deduction, will be replaced by a model where ambitious clubs can apply for Premiership status through revamped financial, commercial, and on-pitch criteria. Clubs like Wasps, Worcester, and London Irish, who faced financial struggles in recent seasons, could return to the top tier if they meet these new standards.
The proposed changes also address historical issues such as Ealing Trailfinders' consistent dominance of the Championship but failure to gain promotion due to stadium size constraints. While traditional relegation remains a possibility through playoffs for now, the long-term focus is on fostering sustainable growth and stability across all levels of English rugby.
This restructuring could be transformative for second-tier clubs like Coventry and dormant powerhouses like Wasps, who plan to relaunch in Kent. The RFU's goal is to create a more competitive and appealing Premiership that entices investors with improved financial sustainability, larger fanbases, and better stadium facilities, alongside strong on-field performance.
The new model reflects the RFU's broader vision to modernize English rugby and make it more globally competitive. By prioritizing long-term growth over short-term fixes, the union aims to ensure a vibrant, sustainable future for the sport—one that resonates not just with fans but also with global investors looking for stable, high-quality sports opportunities.
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/26/2026