Sport

WRU faces £7.5m loss despite Principality Stadium successes

Published

2 weeks ago

November 27, 2024

THE WELSH RUGBY UNION has reported a £7.5m loss for the financial year ending June 2024, despite strong revenues from high-profile events at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium, including concerts by Taylor Swift and Bruce Springsteen.

The WRU’s turnover climbed to £102.7m, marking a second consecutive year of growth. This included a £4.7m boost from matches and stadium-hosted events. However, rising costs—driven by lingering Covid-19 impacts, inflation, and significant spending on the men’s Rugby World Cup and women’s rugby—pushed total expenses to £75.1m, up from £67m the previous year.

Revenue grows, challenges persist

Although Wales missed hosting autumn internationals in 2023 due to the Rugby World Cup, the summer calendar included friendlies, a match against the Barbarians, and live performances from global music stars such as Pink and the Foo Fighters. The Principality Stadium also marked its 25th anniversary in June with a series of celebrations.

Despite the increased turnover, the WRU recorded its second successive annual loss, following a £4.8m deficit in 2023. This reverses a positive £3m profit posted in 2022.

Off-field turmoil adds pressure

The union has faced criticism off the pitch, admitting to “serious failings” in managing contract negotiations with the women’s national team over the summer. On the pitch, the men’s team, coached by Warren Gatland, is enduring a record-breaking 12-game losing streak. In addition, women’s head coach Ioan Cunningham stepped down earlier this month.

Regional funding also saw a drop, falling from £35.5m to £28.7m, and the Dragons rugby team returned to private ownership in July 2023. Despite this, the WRU highlighted its investment of £60m into rugby across Wales, supporting development at all levels of the game.

Eyes on stability and sustainability

Chief executive Abi Tierney, who took over in January, presented the WRU’s annual report during a general meeting on Sunday in the Vale of Glamorgan. Tierney acknowledged the financial hurdles but reaffirmed the union’s focus on building a stable and sustainable future for Welsh rugby.

“This year’s annual report comes at a time of challenges but also great potential,” Tierney said. “Financial stability remains central to our strategy, ensuring we can reinvest in the game and support its growth across all levels.”

While the WRU faces a tough financial landscape, it remains committed to navigating these challenges and backing the sport’s development.

Sport

Stunning start to the EPCR Challenge Cup 2024/25 season

Published

3 hours ago

December 9, 2024

Herald Sport

THE OPENING weekend of the 2024/25 EPCR Challenge Cup delivered thrilling rugby action, with standout performances and record-breaking moments across the competition. Fans were treated to a feast of tries, dramatic plays, and individual brilliance as Europe’s elite club teams clashed in the first round.

Top performers steal the show

Several players etched their names into the headlines with eye-catching performances:

Luke Matkava of Black Lion was a master off the tee, notching up an impressive 17 points, making him the weekend’s top scorer.
Lucas Martin of Aviron Bayonnais led the charge with 22 carries, showcasing his relentless drive on the field.
Nadir Megdoud, also from Aviron Bayonnais, dazzled defenders, beating 21 players—more than anyone else in Round 1.
Jac Price of the Scarlets proved to be a defensive powerhouse, making a tournament-high 26 tackles.

Key stats and records

The opening round saw 49 tries scored and an impressive 384 points racked up across all matches. Among the key highlights:

Connacht’s Chay Mullins delivered the only hattrick of the round, marking a dream debut.
Antoine Aucagne of USAP scored the quickest try of the weekend, touching down just two minutes into their clash with the Toyota Cheetahs.
Gloucester Rugby’s Seb Blake claimed the season’s first try in their match against Edinburgh Rugby, crossing the line at the 10-minute mark.

A weekend to remember

Jeandre Rudolph of Toyota Cheetahs showed versatility, making seven dominant carries, securing four turnovers, and scoring a try in a commanding display. Meanwhile, Scarlets’ duo Jac Price and Alex Craig led defensive efforts, with Price topping the tackles chart and Craig closely behind with 24.

The weekend opened with a nail-biting encounter between Dragons RFC and Montpellier Hérault Rugby, where Aurelian Barreau scored the tournament’s first points via an early penalty.

A promising start

The EPCR Challenge Cup continues to unite teams from the Gallagher Premiership, TOP14, and United Rugby Championship, offering a stage for unforgettable rugby moments. The Principality Stadium in Cardiff is set to host the finals weekend in May, promising an electric atmosphere for fans.

With such an explosive start, rugby enthusiasts can look forward to more drama and excitement as the tournament progresses. For detailed results, updated pools, and more, visit the EPCR Challenge Cup website.

Sport

Ospreys v Emirates Lions match relocated to Parc y Scarlets due to storm

Published

2 days ago

December 7, 2024

Herald Sport

THE HIGHLY anticipated Ospreys v Emirates Lions match in the EPCR Challenge Cup has been moved to Parc y Scarlets after Storm Darragh caused structural damage to the Swansea.com Stadium. The fixture, originally scheduled at the Swansea venue, will still take place on Sunday, December 8, with a 3:15pm kick-off.

Following extensive consultations with EPCR, alternative venues such as St Helen’s and the Dunraven Brewery Field were considered. However, Parc y Scarlets was chosen as the best option, ensuring both player safety and supporter welfare.

In a joint statement, Ospreys and EPCR expressed gratitude to the Scarlets for their swift cooperation in accommodating the match at short notice. “We are incredibly thankful for the Scarlets’ support during this unexpected situation,” the statement read.

The change of venue does not alter the match schedule, and arrangements for ticket and hospitality transfers are being finalised. Supporters are advised to await further updates regarding these details. The match will be broadcast on Premier Sports, SuperSport, and FloRugby.

An EPCR spokesperson added: “We appreciate the understanding of fans during this unforeseen change. We look forward to an exciting game at Parc y Scarlets.”

Sport

All football in Wales postponed as Storm Darragh threatens severe disruption

Published

3 days ago

December 6, 2024

Herald Sport

THE FAW has announced the postponement of all football matches scheduled for Saturday, December 7, as Storm Darragh is set to bring life-threatening conditions to the country.

The decision follows a rare red weather warning issued by the Met Office, forecasting winds of up to 90mph and heavy rainfall across Wales and parts of southwestern England. This is the first red alert since Storm Isha in January, with forecasters warning of extensive disruption, including potential damage to buildings, power outages, and severe flooding.

An FAW spokesperson said:
“The Met Office has issued red, amber, and yellow weather warnings for the vast majority of Wales due to Storm Darragh, which is expected to bring damaging winds and heavy rain, causing significant disruption and danger to life.

“It is not safe to drive in such weather, including travelling to and from football matches. Being outside in high winds increases the risk of injury, and the Met Office advises people to stay indoors if possible.

“Clubs have been advised to check for and secure any loose items around their grounds if it can be done safely. This includes bins, furniture, goalposts, and fences.”

Precautions and ongoing assessments

The FAW confirmed that matches scheduled for Friday, December 6, and Sunday, December 8, will be reviewed individually, depending on league policies and updated weather conditions.

The Met Office has also issued a yellow warning for rain in Wales from 3:00pm today until midday tomorrow, alongside two amber warnings for wind on Saturday. Rhondda Cynon Taf, where severe flooding affected between 200 and 300 properties during Storm Bert last month, is among the areas bracing for renewed challenges.

Residents are urged to prepare for potential disruptions and stay informed of weather updates. Storm Darragh’s impact is expected to be one of the most severe weather events in recent months, underscoring the importance of adhering to safety advisories.