SA Rugby will support a reported merger between the URC and Premiership, provided the Bulls, Lions, Sharks, and Stormers are guaranteed spots in the competition.
A potential merger between the URC and the Premiership, split into two divisions with promotion and relegation, is reportedly under serious consideration as both competitions explore ways to boost future broadcasting deals.
WalesOnline reports that the new league could bring in an extra £4 million (R91,4 million) in TV revenue. Sky Sports has already shown interest in securing broadcast rights. Private equity firm CVC, which holds a 27% stake in the English Premiership and 28% in the URC, is reportedly involved in the discussions.
According to Sunday newspaper Rapport, South Africa has supported the merger, but it is unlikely to happen before May 2026.
The current proposal suggests South African teams would be placed in a division alongside sides from Ireland, Scotland, and Italy, while teams from England and Wales would form the other division. The top four teams from each division would face off in cross-division knockout matches to determine the league champion.
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Src: sarugbymag.co.za
