RFU statement: Wasps' relegation confirmed

Wasps’ relegation from the Gallagher Premiership has been confirmed by the RFU eleven days after they fell into administration with the loss of 167 player and staff jobs at the club. There had been hopes that despite their suspension from the 2022/23 top flight that a takeover could have quickly taken place to allow them to restart their campaign.

However, the governing body of rugby in England have now stated that Wasps will not play again this season and will instead restart in next season’s 2023/24 Championship, the same level of the game that will herald the return of Worcester, the other top-flight club that financially went to the wall in recent weeks.

A statement read: “Following a meeting of the RFU’s club financial viability group on Friday, the RFU can confirm the suspension of Wasps from Gallagher Premiership Rugby and Premiership Rugby Cup for the remainder of the 2022/23 season.

“The RFU’s club financial viability group is encouraged by the progress made by the administrators and it has taken the decision to suspend the team in order to support the prospect of securing a deal with the right investor and giving the club the best chance for a long-term sustainable future.

“Any potential investors and management will require due diligence and approvals from the RFU and PRL. A condition of any potential deal will include a requirement for the payment of all rugby creditors.

“The decision also gives certainty to PRL and Premiership rugby clubs to protect the integrity of Gallagher Premiership Rugby and allow clubs and their teams to plan for the rest of the season.

“Under RFU regulations, Wasps will be relegated from Gallagher Premiership Rugby and therefore, if investors can be secured, the club will restart in the Championship in season 2023/24. The club is able to appeal this decision if it can show there was no fault insolvency.”