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PREM Rugby’s revenue beat forecasts by £7.8m as the league reported improved finances across all 10 clubs ahead of the 2026/27 season.
The league’s recently released second annual financial watchdog report said revenue in the 2025 financial year was £7.8m above projections, with a further five per cent growth forecast to 2027. PREM Rugby now describes itself as a competition generating more than £260m as the league enters its 30th season.
All 10 clubs also passed the Financial Monitoring System for 2026/27, with combined losses predicted to fall by £26.7m between FY23 and FY27.
External debt is expected to drop by 26 percent in the same period, while the number of clubs requiring shareholder support is expected to halve from eight to four. Shareholder support is forecast to fall from £39.2m to £23.2m.
The improved image comes along with a wave of investment across the league. Red Bull has invested in Newcastle Red Bulls, Sir James Dyson buys 50 per cent stake in Bath, Black Knight Rugby completes takeover Exeter Chiefs in June, Doc Northampton The Saints also brought in new investments.
PREM Rugby chief executive Simon Massie-Taylor said the league had worked to increase audiences, increase revenue and manage costs while making clubs more attractive to investors.
“Trade is steadily improving, third-party debt is reduced and there is less reliance on shareholder support,” he said.
“The numbers are moving in the right direction as we continue to build the future together.”
The report also points to growing demand, with stadium occupancy reaching 82 per cent in 2025/26 and central sponsorship revenue doubling from 2022.
Spending on players and academies is forecast to rise from £79m to £85.9m by FY27, while investment in women’s rugby is set to increase from £3.6m to £4.6m.
