There has been a thorough and comprehensive process managed by Welsh Government and Sport Wales which has examined the documented losses already suffered across professional rugby in Wales.
With no spectators attending rugby matches since the start of the pandemic, this £13.5m grant is timely and reflects the size of the challenges facing professional rugby in Wales.
Everyone in rugby is mindful of the hardships being endured across the country, yet we are grateful that the role rugby plays in Welsh life is reflected in the comments of both Lord Dafydd Elis-Thomas and Rebecca Evans.
With no spectator income in the professional game since the start of the pandemic, extreme measures have already been taken to mitigate losses to date.
Conversations are continuing with Welsh Government about alleviating the challenges of the terms of the recently secured CLBILS which would, in addition to this grant, put Welsh rugby in a better position to face the short, medium and long-term challenges ahead.
“On behalf of the professional game in Wales I would like to thank Welsh Government for this award from the Spectator Sports Survival Fund,” said WRU CEO Steve Phillips.
“During an incredibly challenging time we have found both Welsh Government and Sport Wales accessible, responsive and sympathetic to the plight of our game in Wales.
“We always anticipated there would be challenges with spectator attendance at the recent Autumn Nations Cup.
“However, with the ongoing nature of the pandemic, no one is able to predict with any certainty when crowds will be allowed back into stadia, allowing our income streams to return to normal. As such this £13.5m grant is timely and hugely helpful.”
WRU chairman Rob Butcher added:
“I would very much wish to acknowledge and offer our sincere thanks for this timely award from our colleagues at Welsh Government.
“We want Welsh rugby to emerge from the other side of the pandemic intact. We will, as we have done to date, continue to work with our community clubs to ensure they have access to the appropriate Welsh Government schemes already in place. The positive role played by our clubs at the heart of Welsh communities is hugely significant.”
