SA Rugby address rumours of European exit in statement

SA Rugby has moved to cool speculation over the future of its involvement in EPCR competitions, stressing that any decisions on a potential exit remain premature following comments from its CEO earlier this week.

Reports had suggested South Africa’s franchises could withdraw from European club competitions as part of a broader shake-up of the playing calendar, but SA Rugby said its focus is firmly on an upcoming strategic review rather than any immediate change.

The union confirmed that a long-planned strategic planning session, involving its members and directors of rugby, will take place before the end of July. The purpose of that summit is to conduct a comprehensive review of competitions, with particular emphasis on the growing strain placed on players.

Central to discussions will be the ongoing challenge of player welfare, with South African teams currently competing year-round across domestic, URC and European commitments, as well as international windows.

SA Rugby said in a statement: “SA Rugby planned some time ago to host a strategic planning session of its members and their directors of rugby to undertake a thorough review of competitions and focus on identifying a workable solution to the pressing issue of player welfare for South African players.

“That session has been confirmed to take place before the end of July.

“It is in response to the need to find a competitions schedule that does not compromise the health of players or the performance of teams in the absence of progress to align to a global calendar.

“Any speculation or predictions as to the outcomes are premature.

“The views of all internal stakeholders will be canvassed and workshopped on the domestic and international playing calendar for South African players, which currently sees SA teams in action in every month of the year.

“Should consensus be reached on a potential revision of the calendar, any contractual or constitutional requirements to affect such a revision will be observed.”