SA Rugby becomes shareholder in United Rugby Championship
The United Rugby Championship confirmed on Wednesday that the South African Rugby Union has become the league’s sixth shareholder.
The union joins the Irish, Italian, Scottish, and Welsh rugby unions, along with CVC Capital Partners, as shareholders in Pro Rugby Championship DAC, the company that operates the league.
SA Rugby’s relationship with the competition dates back to 2018 when the Toyota Cheetahs and Southern Kings joined the PRO14. In 2021, the launch of the Vodacom URC introduced the Lions, DHL Stormers, Hollywoodbets Sharks, and Vodacom Bulls.
Since then, the URC has grown significantly across broadcast audiences, digital engagement, and match attendances, with SA Rugby and its teams playing a pivotal role in that success.
“There is no doubt about the hugely positive impact South African rugby has had on our league, and confirmation of their addition as a shareholder was always part of the roadmap. In 2018 and again in 2021, South African rugby showed vision and courage in reshaping where their teams competed, and this milestone is a testament to that foresight,” said Martin Anayi, United Rugby Championship CEO.
“From a fan’s perspective, nothing changes. But from a business standpoint, our URC team will now work even more closely with South African teams, partners, broadcasters, and stakeholders to continue elevating the league. This alignment across both hemispheres will create day-to-day efficiencies and open the door to exploring new ideas at a faster pace.”
Rian Oberholzer, CEO of SA Rugby, said the move marked the completion of an eight-year journey.
“There have been doubters over the years, but the vision we shared with Martin Anayi and the URC team has now come to pass, and we look forward to growing the competition as full partners with our colleagues in the north.
“The competition has gone from strength to strength, and with four different winners in the first four seasons of our participation, it has proved itself as arguably the most competitive league in rugby. It has been good for our rugby and we look forward to many more years of success.”
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