Super Rugby outfit’s future in doubt after huge debt revealed
Melbourne Rebels players form a huddle during a Super Rugby match.
According to reports in the Australian media, up to AU$9 million n debt was revealed after Rugby Australia (RA) held an inspection of the club’s books.
News Corp reported that RA cannot bail out the Rebels but are determined to save the club from folding, with the governing body desperate to retain five teams at Super Rugby level.
That report stated that an enforced merger with the Brumbies, who have also been under financial duress, was at least a possibility.
“Rugby in Victoria is very important to Rugby Australia and it is our intent to continue to have a footprint there in both provincial and Test rugby,” said a RA spokesman.
‘Working to overcome the challenges’
“We are working together to overcome the challenges that the Rebels are currently navigating.”
Meanwhile, Rebels chief executive Baden Stephenson said he is confident that the club will survive.
“I’m absolutely not concerned about the Melbourne Rebels’ ongoing tenure, we’ve got big things coming in 2025 (British & Irish Lions tour) and 2027 (home World Cup), we’ve got a lot to be proud of but also to improve on,” he said.
“But we will be fine.
“We’ve been operating with reduced funding due to Covid since November 2020, it’s been challenging no doubt for all Super Rugby clubs. I am confident in the leadership and the board that I’ve got.
“We’re not sitting back and throwing our hands up saying ‘Poor us’. We only just announced a five-year partnership with La Trobe University (on Monday).”
One of the Rebels’ major sponsors, BRC Capital, are battling to remain solvent and the club must pay an important tax bill in three weeks’ time.
None of the Rebels staff or players are contracted beyond 2025.
Stephenson issued a statement on Wednesday to allay fears about the club’s future.
Setting the record straight
“In response to recent negative media coverage originating out of Sydney, the Melbourne Rebels wishes to address the speculations and set the record straight,” read the statement.
“Despite the unfounded speculation circulating in the media, we want to assure our supporters, stakeholders, and the wider community that the Melbourne Rebels’ future is extremely bright. Our club is unwavering in its commitment to excellence both on and off the field in 2024 and will not be distracted by those who are seeking again to harm and disrespect our community.
“Led by chairman Paul Docherty, the Board of Directors and our executive, our club has consistently benefited under a foundation of strong leadership, diverse thinking, invaluable experience, and an unwavering fighting spirit.
“The support from the Victorian Government, Melbourne and Olympic Parks Trust, our partners, suppliers, dedicated members, and our community reinforces the collective commitment to championing our club. We remain resolute in our stance against any form of intimidation or exploitation.
“Instead, we stand tall, recognising the honour and responsibility we bear in representing everyone in our community on both the national and international stages.”
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