International – The English FA is expected to record a record deficit at the end of the year

If on the field, with three defeats in as many matches since the start of the November tour, the situation in English rugby is worrying, it is also behind the scenes. According to the daily across the Channel The Daily Telegraphthe Rugby Federal Union is expected to record record losses estimated at £40 million, or €48 million, for the 2023/2024 financial year. A significant deficit which could be explained by the lack of posters at Twickenham during last season, because of the World Cup. The Federation, owner of the London stadium, earns revenue from ticketing and last year, England only hosted two Tournament matches at home, which represents a significant shortfall. This is not the first time that the country across the Channel has lost significant sums. In 2018, the RFU was already missing 30 million, which led to the departure of its president at the time, Steve Brown.

Optimism for 2025

However, the English federation should get through this period of financial turbulence without suffering too much damage thanks to an absence of debt and significant cash reserves. Optimism is even on the agenda within the body across the Channel. The financial year which has started should be more favorable for the RFU. In November alone, they hosted four matches at Twickenham and are due to host three more at the Six Nations. Enough to generate significant cash flow which should also be boosted by the holding of the next Women’s World Cup in England from next August.

In addition, the English federation has signed important deals in recent months which should do some good. The first with the insurance company Allianz for a naming contract for the emblematic Twickenham stadium which brought in one hundred million pounds. The second with the professional league, a deal worth £264 million over eight years. In any case, the question of the deficit should be on the table at the Rugby Federal Union board of directors on November 25.