'We understand the repercussions' - RFU clarify next season's payments to Championship clubs

Following the outrage at the slashing of funding to Greene King IPA Championship clubs, the RFU has outlined a restructured two-year funding arrangement to “ease the transition for next season”.

Last week there was widespread dismay from the Championship clubs, supporters and advocates after the news that the roughly £500,000 per club, per season would be reduced to £288,000 per club. The RFU have now apparently been forced to come to a compromise of sorts.

Bill Sweeney, RFU CEO said: “RFU funding over the next two seasons will have a greater proportion going to clubs for the 2020/21 season, resulting in a reduction of £135,000 rather than the £220,000 per club in the original proposal.

“We listened to feedback from the clubs and wanted to find a funding solution that would lessen the impact for the 2020/21 season.

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“We haven’t taken this issue lightly and we understand the repercussions, and what a reduction in funding means to the clubs and the players and all involved. We have told the clubs that we are here to help them through the transition in any way we can.

“In addition to funding discussions we want to work together as a group to define the role of the Championship. We need to have clear joint goals for the League and be sure of the benefit we’re getting from our investment in it. We are committed to exploring commercial opportunities to make the League more self-sustaining.”

“The clubs met yesterday to talk about the phased reduction. Although we have yet to hear back formally from the Championship Executive, a number of clubs have contacted us directly to provide feedback. We look forward to further discussion with the executive in the near future.”