Warriors welcome and support the decision of the RFU Council to change the structure of the Gallagher Premiership to 14 clubs from the end of the 2021/22 season.
Owing to the impact of COVID-19, clubs at all levels – but in the Premiership in particular – have sustained significant financial losses and today’s decision by the RFU provides a period of stability which is needed to improve the sustainability of professional rugby in England over the next three seasons.
A strong and sustainable Gallagher Premiership is needed to underpin the continued success of England at international level.
At Warriors we are proud that we have two players – Ted Hill and Ollie Lawrence – in England’s squad for the forthcoming internationals against USA and Canada and three – Fin Smith, Lewis Holsey and Seb Atkinson – in the England Under-20 squad for the Six Nations in Cardiff.
They have benefited from gaining senior experience at a young age and we believe that the structure approved by the RFU today will encourage the development of other young and talented players.
The increase in the size of the Premiership to 14 clubs will increase competition, provide more excitement and entertainment for supporters and keep the door open for ambitious Championship clubs who have aspirations to compete in the best club competition in the world.
Today’s decision was also supported by the Championship clubs and Warriors believe that it is important that ambitious Championship clubs have the opportunity to progress to the Premiership as we have done.
Overall, we believe today’s decision will lead to increased confidence in clubs for further investment into the game which, in turn, will ensure that the Premiership remains the most competitive and exciting club league in the world.
We would like to thank our supporters, players and staff for their loyalty and commitment during what have been extremely challenging circumstances. Today’s decision means that we can all plan for a brighter future with more clarity and certainty.