PREM Rugby report major change in financial health of clubs

PREM Rugby revenues have beaten forecasts by £7.8 million as the league reported improving finances across all 10 clubs ahead of the 2026/27 season.

The league’s recently-revealed second annual Financial Monitoring Report says revenue in the 2025 financial year came in £7.8m above projections, with a further five per cent rise forecast by 2027. PREM Rugby now describes itself as a competition generating more than £260m as the league enters its 30th season.

All 10 clubs have also passed the Financial Monitoring System for 2026/27, while combined losses are forecast to fall by £26.7m between FY23 and FY27.

External debt is expected to drop by 26 per cent over the same period, while the number of clubs requiring shareholder support is forecast to halve from eight to four. Shareholder support is also projected to fall from £39.2m to £23.2m.

The improved picture comes alongside a wave of investment across the league. Red Bull have invested in Newcastle Red Bulls, Sir James Dyson has acquired a 50 per cent stake in Bath, Black Knight Rugby completed its takeover of Exeter Chiefs in June, while Northampton Saints have also brought in new investment.

PREM Rugby chief executive Simon Massie-Taylor said the league had worked to grow audiences, increase revenues and manage costs while making clubs more attractive to investors.

“Trading is constantly improving, third party debt is down and there is less reliance on shareholder support,” he said.

“The numbers are moving in the right direction as together we continue to build for the future.”

The report also points to growing demand, with stadium occupancy reaching 82 per cent in 2025/26 and central sponsorship revenue doubling since 2022.

Spending on players and academies is forecast to rise from £79m to £85.9m by FY27, while investment in women’s rugby is projected to increase from £3.6m to £4.6m.