Prim expects to record revenues of £200m next year amid the R360 threat

At the start of the year, major investors in the club game told the BBC the model was “fundamentally flawed” amid fears other clubs could follow Wasps, Worcester and London Irish out of business.

However, energy drink giant Red Bull has taken on league strugglers Newcastle, while ticket sales and TV viewing figures have increased alongside a lucrative new professional gaming partnership., external With the Rugby Football Union.

According to the Financial Control Commission, an independent body responsible for overseeing the league’s finances, revenues next year will exceed £200m for the first time since the league went to 10 teams, with three of the 10 teams expected to break even in 2026.

While operating costs have remained flat, with losses reduced due to “increased core revenues and cost control”, third party debts remain at around £100m, almost 70% of which is owed to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport following the 2020 Covid bailouts.

“We know we have something very special with Prem and we are on a good financial trajectory,” Prem Rugby CEO Simon Massey Taylor said.

“Fan interest and engagement are also growing significantly, proving that there is a lot of commercial growth to be pursued.

“Our focus now is to continue fueling this growth with great players playing for historic clubs.

“We have an incredibly competitive league with strong foundations built on high standards, financial oversight and strategic investments.

“Our vision is to become the best league in world rugby and I am very optimistic about the future.”