RFU to host general meeting amid call’s for CEO’s removal
The Rugby Football Union (RFU) has confirmed it will hold a special general meeting (SGM) after the men’s Six Nations, amid clamouring for the removal of CEO Bill Sweeney.
The meeting, which is reportedly set to take place in late March or early April, comes after 141 member clubs and referee societies have called for a vote on the incumbent’s future.
The demand for the SGM stems from a formal letter submitted to the RFU, which exceeded the 100 signatures necessary to trigger the meeting under the governing body’s rules.
Initially, the RFU rejected the letter on procedural grounds, citing “inaccuracies” and deeming it invalid.
However, following additional information from the signatories, the RFU reversed its position, stating it respects the right of its members to request an SGM. A specific date for the meeting will be confirmed in the coming weeks.
In November, the RFU’s annual report revealed Sweeney had received a total of £1.1m for 2023/24, despite the organisation’s record operating loss of £37.9m. That figure comprised a salary of £742,000, as well as a bonus of £358,000.
The RFU made 42 redundancies in September, while England’s men’s national team secured only five wins from 12 matches last year. Concerns over grassroots participation declining and reductions in development officer roles.
The SGM will include a resolution calling for Sweeney’s removal from his role “as soon as practicably possible.” However, the RFU has reiterated that Sweeney retains the full support of the board.
Sir Bill Beaumont, whose interim appointment as Chair of the RFU Board was announced on 10th January, has urged unity within the game.
Beaumont, who replaces outgoing chair Tom Ilube, plans to visit rugby teams across the country in the coming months to discuss members’ concerns.
“This is a serious moment for the game of rugby in England,” Beaumont stated in a letter to clubs.
“There have been demands for change without clarity on the real reasons why, or proposals for an alternative vision. Whatever we do next, it needs to be for the good of the English game.”
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