Leaked documents have unveiled the Rugby Football Union’s contemplation of selling Twickenham and acquiring a 50 percent stake in Wembley Stadium.
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This bold proposition, dubbed the ‘leave’ option, emerged as an alternative to embarking on a £663 million redevelopment scheme outlined in a 69-page blueprint titled ‘Twickenham Stadium Masterplan Programme,’ which Telegraph Sport has gained access to.
The ‘stay’ option, outlined in the masterplan, presents a comprehensive renovation endeavour deemed the “preferred way forward.” This course of action was favored after the RFU opted against relocating to Wembley the previous summer.
“Our long-term masterplan for Twickenham is being developed to ensure England’s national rugby stadium stays up to date, is compliant with all relevant regulations, provides the best possible experiences for fans and continues to generate revenue for reinvestment into the community and professional game,” the RFU statement said.
“Work will be undertaken over the next 12 months to consider next stage designs and assess what interventions might take place and when within the existing stadium footprint over the next 10 years.
“The RFU board has not agreed any new re-development plans. However, as you would expect all options will be thoroughly considered as part of a long-term strategy.
“As plans are further developed, the RFU board and council will be fully consulted and engaged in the due diligence and approval process, this would include any potential funding sources.
“As per the RFU constitution, if borrowing of over £150m was needed, council members’ views and approval would be required.”
Fans Outraged by 2025 Six Nations Kick-Off Time, it’s not great for anyone
The tournament commences on Friday, 31 January, with France hosting Wales in Paris, with kick-off at 9:15 pm local time. This hasn’t gone down well with fans.
One fan wrote: “Rugby is already declining in Wales and now children won’t be able to watch their first game. Bad idea,”
A second said: “Getting to the Stade de France at the best of time is hard. Getting back after a 9:15 kick-off time will be a nightmare,”
Another simply stated: “Who’s f***ing s*** idea was this?”
England will play the following day, as Scotland takes on Italy at Murrayfield, as announced by tournament organisers.
As per this year, the 2025 Championship will see BBC and ITV sharing coverage in the UK, with S4C offering Welsh language options. France Television will be the home of the Championship for French fans, RTE and Virgin Media will once again cover the games in Ireland. In Italy, Sky Italia will continue their coverage of the Championship in 2025. The host broadcast coverage will also be complemented by widespread international broadcast coverage and a World Feed service.
2025 Siz Nations Fixtures
ROUND 1
- Friday 31 January
- France vs Wales – 8.15pm
- Saturday 1 February
- Scotland vs Italy – 2.15pm
- Ireland vs England – 4.45pm
ROUND 2
- Saturday 8 February
- Italy vs Wales – 2.15pm
- England vs France – 4.45pm
- Sunday 9 February
- Scotland vs Ireland – 3pm