RFU set to scrap promotion and relegation in radical Premiership revamp

The Rugby Football Union is expected to approve a radical new structure for English rugby on Friday that separates the Premiership from the rest of the pyramid and ends traditional promotion and relegation.

Expansion plans to replace relegation

The governing body’s council is set to rubber-stamp proposals that will see the top flight expand from 10 to 12 teams by 2030.

Further expansion remains possible if aspirational clubs can satisfy strict criteria regarding their operations both on and off the field.

This major shift could pave the way for former powerhouses such as Wasps, Worcester Warriors and London Irish to return to the elite level.

All three historic sides went out of business during the tumultuous 2022-23 season but could re-enter the fold under this franchise-style model.

Barriers to entry

Under the current regulations, a mechanism for movement between the Premiership and the Championship technically exists via a play-off.

However, Ealing Trailfinders, who have consistently been the standout team in the second tier, have repeatedly failed to meet existing minimum standards regarding stadium capacity.

Consequently, there has been no relegation from the top tier since Saracens were demoted in 2020 following significant salary cap breaches.

The north Londoners were also the last team to gain promotion, returning immediately after winning the Championship in 2021.

New criteria for aspirational clubs

Under the proposed plans, ambitious clubs will still be able to apply for a place in the Premiership, but the requirements have evolved.

Applicants must meet a variety of revamped criteria covering financial sustainability and commercial viability alongside on-pitch potential.

Insiders within the English game expect this structure to collectively raise standards and make the sport a more attractive proposition for private investment.

“We are lifting the bar on what we want clubs to do across various areas,” a leading executive stated.

Sources suggest the application process remains open to ambitious Championship sides like Coventry, dormant giants such as Wasps – who plan to relaunch in Kent – or brand-new entities.

While second-tier clubs had previously rejected franchise-type models, leading figures insist the board has been consulted throughout and has endorsed the recommendation.

“It could be transformational for aspirational Championship clubs,” a senior source told the BBC.

Focus on sustainability

Bill Sweeney, the RFU chief executive, has previously emphasised the need to make the league a “thriving” environment for investors.

“Part of that will be a model whereby you qualify for an expansion league in the Premiership, but based on criteria around financial sustainability, fanbase and stadium, not just performance on the field of play,” Sweeney said last year.

The council meeting on Friday represents a pivotal moment for the future structure of the professional game in England.