Debt-laden Worcester told by RFU they face suspension over safety concerns

The Rugby Football Union has told Worcester Warriors they will be suspended from the Premiership if the financially stricken club cannot provide assurances by midday on Friday that they can safely stage matches at Sixways. It is also understood that suspension could lead to Worcester being permanently kicked out of the Premiership if assurances over the club’s finances are not provided.

The RFU has grown increasingly frustrated with the lack of information coming from the current owners of the club over the details of the finances and potential sale of the club and have issued a strict deadline. In particular, the RFU is concerned that the local authority has not provided Worcester with a general safety certificate to stage matches at Sixways, but worries extend to medical provisions for players amid overdue payments for staff and bills for suppliers.

The ultimatum comes on another desperate day for the club with Sunday’s first home fixture of the season against Exeter now hanging by a thread. On Wednesday a deadline set by suppliers, including those who provide medical provisions, and staff for overdue payments was not met and it is understood that on Thursday wifi and emails went down while it also emerged the club is unable to pay for players’ MRI scans. The disillusionment among staff is palpable with the club mired in upwards of £25m of debt.

An RFU statement read: “The RFU, PRL [Premiership Rugby Ltd] and DCMS has been seeking assurances from the Worcester Warriors owners regarding funding and potential new ownership proposals for several weeks. All parties are concerned that the lack of available funds will not allow the club to hold matches safely for players and spectators, and for ongoing medical provision for