Tier one Test calendar takes priority as it generates most moneySummer and autumn tour contingencies being consideredWorld Rugby is drawing up an action plan to ensure leading unions do not go to the wall as the financial impact of coronavirus starts to bite. The governing body is examining the books of all tier one nations, pledging to quickly help the most needy and prioritising the Test calendar which generates the bulk of the sport’s revenue.
The Rugby
Football Union said this week that it expected to lose up to £50m in the next financial year, Australia will be down £45m if the shutdown continues for the rest of the year,
New Zealand would face a shortfall of £60m, Wales’s loss will be far greater than budgeted for and all the unions have issued, or are considering, pay cuts. They have all opened up their books for inspection so the extent of the downturn may be gauged and talks with tier two countries will follow.