Discussions ongoing for future of Rebels and World Cup final: Rugby Australia
Rugby Australia in Talks with State Government Over Rebels Future and World Cup Final
Discussions are ongoing between Rugby Australia and the state government regarding the future of the Melbourne Rebels and the hosting of the World Cup final. A spokesperson for Rugby Australia clarified that these are two separate matters, with the Rebels situation focusing on the financial sustainability of professional rugby in Australia, while the World Cup final placement concerns major global sporting events in Melbourne.
World Rugby, the majority partner in a joint venture with host Rugby Australia, relies heavily on revenue from the Rugby World Cup, which is touted as the third-biggest sporting event in the world. The upcoming World Cup is forecast to have a significant $2.2 billion impact on the Australian economy and attract 200,000 international visitors. World Rugby is responsible for selecting the finals host and is currently handling negotiations.
Rebels director Georgia Widdup expressed gratitude towards the Victorian government for their support and emphasized the importance of establishing sustainable financial models for the Melbourne Rebels. Widdup, along with other consortium members, including Leigh Clifford, presented a rescue deal to Rugby Australia officials, outlining plans to inject $30 million into the club and share facilities with the Western United A-League Teams in Tarneit.
However, the future of the Rebels hangs in the balance as creditors, owed a total of $23 million, are set to vote on the rescue deal. If the deal is rejected, Rebels directors could face personal liability for the club’s losses, as an administrator’s report found that the team had been trading while insolvent since at least 2018.
Rugby Australia has not publicly stated its support for the deal but had previously indicated its backing for the club to enter liquidation. The outcome of the creditors’ vote on Friday will determine the fate of the Melbourne Rebels and the potential hosting of the World Cup final in Melbourne.