On Tuesday [23 April 2024] Worcester MP Robin Walker spoke up in support of better governance for rugby across the UK including in Worcester, to ensure the sustainability of local clubs.
During the debate which was providing an update on the implementation of the Government’s new football financial framework, Robin made the case that other sports including Rugby would benefit from such a structure.
Robin has previously spoke in the House of Commons asking for the Government for support in finding a solution to make the Worcester Warrior’s stable in the long term. He has also worked with prospective owners to find someone who is able to run the club.
Since the suspension of the Worcester Warriors by the RFU in 2022, Worcester and the West Midlands has been without a top-flight rugby team. For many communities, a local sport team is a crucial monument within an area which the community can bond over. Yet for many smaller clubs of all sports, financial struggles are making their continued existence unsustainable.
A strong regulatory framework, built to ensure that the people running clubs are sufficiently qualified such that they can manage the club sustainably, would be a great benefit to a number of sports.
Commenting on Rugby in Worcester, Robin said:
“Like many towns and cities across the country, Worcester loves its sport, and I believe it is crucial for us to restore a sustainable professional rugby club here.”
“Rugby, and many other sports, stand to benefit from a strong but balanced regulator which protects clubs from individuals who are not fit to be directors bringing clubs to financial ruin.”
“I hope that the Government can continue to understand more about what works from the football financial framework and apply this knowledge in support of our local rugby clubs.”