Welsh Rugby Union chief executive Abi Tierney has given her sales pitch to prospective investors willing to pay £10m for Cardiff Rugby.
The Union have put the hefty price tag on the club that went into administration last month – with £6m of debts - before the governing body stepped in.
Following Cardiff’s entry into administration in April after Helford Capital defaulted on its obligations, the WRU purchased the club’s business and assets for £780,000.
It was a move that stabilised the threat of top flight rugby disappearing from the capital, but has driven a wedge between the Union and two of the regions – the Ospreys and Scarlets – who believe the move lacks transparency over future funding.
“Cardiff Rugby is a major feature within Welsh rugby with a proud legacy and a passionate supporter base and to lose such history from our capital city would have been unthinkable,” said Tierney.
Her remarks come just weeks ahead of the June 6 deadline for expressions of interest in acquiring the club, which has been valued at approximately £10 million.
That valuation includes £6 million of outstanding debt that is repayable by 2029.
The remaining £3.1 million of Cardiff’s original £9 million debt has been absorbed by the WRU itself, through a new subsidiary company.
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The Union’s decision to step in was aligned with its five-year “One Wales” strategy, which favours independent ownership of all four professional clubs, although priovides no detail.
The aim now is to return Cardiff Rugby to private hands—but only with the right investor who shares the club’s long-term ambitions.
“This process provides an exciting opportunity for an investor to become part of one of the most recognisable brands in world rugby, and we believe the right partner can help unlock the full potential of Cardiff Rugby on and off the pitch,” Tierney added.
Founded in 1876, Cardiff are one of only three clubs worldwide to be inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame and are approaching their 150th anniversary.
The team plays in the United Rugby Championship (URC) and European competitions, and calls Cardiff Arms Park—next door to the Principality Stadium—its home.
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For the 2024/25 season, average home crowds have topped 9,000, reflecting the fact they still have a strong fan base.
With projected revenue of £11.8 million by FY2026, underpinned by £5.4 million in Professional Rugby Agreement (PRA25) funding and £6.4 million in commercial income, the WRU believes Cardiff represents a valuable investment proposition despite current losses of £1.1 million.
Tierney stressed the emotional and sporting significance of preserving Cardiff Rugby’s legacy while securing its financial future.
Non-binding expressions of interest must be submitted to the WRU by the close of business on June 6, after which shortlisted parties will gain access to detailed financial and commercial information.
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