The future of one of either Australian Super Rugby franchises Western Force and Melbourne Rebels is far from certain under a proposed new Super Rugby model presented to the Australian Rugby Union board.
It has been reported by the Sydney Morning Herald that a reduced 16-team competition would result in the axing of one of Australia’s franchises along with a South African team and return Super Rugby to a 16-team, four-conference format in time for the 2018 season.
But there are other models floated which includes South Africa losing two teams, while yet another idea is expanding the competition.
In May, SANZAAR – a joint venture between South Africa Rugby Union, New Zealand Rugby Union, the ARU and Argentina Rugby – revealed that they were planning to undertake a 10-year strategic plan to revamp the current 18-team competition which has proven to be unpopular.
SANZAAR enlisted consultancy firm Accenture to help with the review. Currently, Accenture have just completed a consultation process with stakeholders across all Super Rugby franchises, the national unions from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Argentina and Japan, plus host broadcasters from each country.
While a preferred structure has not been decided, it is anticipated a recommended model would be decided in the next month or two, with a final structure and timeline agreed by the end of the year.
Off the field, the ARU are still battling financial and commercial issues.
Despite the ARU pocketing $285 million over five years thanks to a broadcast deal signed last December, the governing body reportedly informed all five Australian Super Rugby franchises they can expect a $500,000 funding shortfall next year.
Furthermore, the ARU is scrambling for a new local naming rights sponsor for Super Rugby after insurer Asteron Life ended their three-year agreement this year.
Read much more at the Sydney Morning Herald.
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