Bill Sweeney Faces Calls for Resignation as RFU Crisis Deepens

Bill Sweeney, the Chief Executive of the Rugby Football Union (RFU) faced demands for his resignation on Thursday as grassroots groups erupted in crisis. This collective which includes 10 Championship clubs, refereeing bodies and lower-level clubs, called for the immediate dismissal of Sweeney, citing his £1.1 million compensation package amid record financial losses and job cuts. The petition also criticized RFU leadership for failing to save liquidated clubs like London Irish, Wasps and Worcester.

It highlighted mishandling of the new tackle height rules in 2023, overspending on fired England coaches’ contracts and a loss of trust among grassroots volunteers. The rebels gathered support from 152 clubs, surpassing the 100-signature threshold required to trigger a Special General Meeting (SGM) and vote on Sweeney’s future. However, the RFU rejected the petition, claiming that it lacked the necessary signatures and that it was invalid due to inaccuracies in the submission.

Despite this, the rebels plan to resubmit their paperwork and press for a vote. A spokesperson for the group insisted the movement remains strong and united, urging the RFU to respect the wishes of over 150 members who seek accountability. Discontent over Bill Sweeney’s £1.1 million bonus which the RFU’s remuneration committee approved with former chairman Tom Ilube’s participation, remains widespread.

Although Ilube stepped down in December and the RFU launched an independent review of the scheme, the controversy continues. Several officials including those from clubs like Carlisle and Chichester, expressed frustration over the RFU’s actions, calling for leadership change at the top. However, the RFU’s nine professional referees distanced themselves from the motion, stating they had not been consulted and did not endorse the petition.