By Sohaib Shams
Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn is expected to ramp up his influence in rugby union after meeting with Premiership Rugby bosses in Monaco last week. Hearn, who runs Matchroom Sport, has recently signed high-profile players Finn Russell and Henry Pollock to his stable.
Hearn's Growing Role in Rugby
Premiership Rugby chief executive Simon Massie-Taylor said Hearn will be a force for good and sees the league on a great trajectory. Massie-Taylor added that Hearn's ambition goes beyond representing top athletes; he wants to work with the league while agitating for more growth and commercial opportunities around players.
Financial Health of Premiership Clubs
The league's second annual financial monitoring report revealed that all 10 clubs have passed financial standards for the 2026/27 season. Revenues are up and club losses are forecast to reduce by £26.7 million, with Newcastle Red Bulls, Exeter Chiefs and Bath Rugby securing major external investment over the past year. However, no club is yet in profit, with Saracens and Sale reporting the heaviest losses.
Profitability Timeline and Expansion Plans
Massie-Taylor expects the vast majority of clubs to move into profit within the next five years. The Premiership also plans to expand from 10 to 12 teams by the 2030/31 season, with expressions of interest to be completed in coming months. Future entrants must play at least one season in the Championship and purchase a "P-Share" valued at around £20 million.
Welsh Clubs Not a Priority
The Welsh Rugby Union has approached the Premiership about the possibility of Welsh sides joining to form an Anglo-Welsh league. While not shutting the door completely, Massie-Taylor said the priority remains developing clubs within the English system, including potential revivals of former clubs such as Wasps or London Irish.
