Worcester statement: Gone into administration letter sent in error

Financially stricken Worcester have issued a statement following an apology on Thursday from the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport after it erroneously released a letter stating that the Gallagher Premiership club had been placed into administration.

There have been fears since the extent of the financial issues at Worcester emerged last month that the club would eventually go into administration as a winding-up petition has been issued against them by the HMRC due to an unpaid tax bill.

Somehow, Worcester managed to battle on and they fulfilled their opening round Premiership fixture at London Irish last Saturday but doubts are growing about their ability to stage this Sunday’s round two game at home to Exeter as the proposed takeover of the club by new owners still hasn’t been completed.

Following the erroneous administration claim from the government department, Worcester have now issued a statement that explained they are still waiting for an agreement with an undisclosed buyer to be completed as they seek survival amid debts of over £25million.

It read: “Worcester Warriors are aware of a letter that is in circulation from the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport claiming that the owners have put the club into administration. This is NOT true.

“The statement was sent out in error by DCMS who have apologised for their mistake and the distress and anxiety it has caused to our staff and suppliers at what is already an extremely stressful time. As we stated yesterday [Wednesday], we are awaiting the signing of Heads of Terms on an agreement with a buyer which would secure the long-term future of the club.

“We are continuing to work closely with the DCMS, RFU and PRL to ensure that this weekend’s Allianz Cup and Gallagher Premiership matches against Harlequins women and Exeter Chiefs respectively can go ahead.”

Exeter boss Rob Baxter explained on Thursday morning at his media briefing that he was uncertain of the status of the match on Sunday, claiming they had no information.