The Vodacom United Rugby Championship (URC) has issued a statement in response to unsubstantiated media claims that the URC and the English Premiership were planning to combine their competitions to the exclusion of the South African and Italian URC teams. 

The URC said:

“Contrary to media reports the Vodacom United Rugby Championship is not engaged in discussions regarding a British & Irish league.

“Since the introduction of the four South African teams in 2021, the league has enjoyed a sustained period of outstanding success achieving record audiences, attendances, social media growth and new levels of competitiveness.

“This is due in great part to the efforts of all 16 teams across Ireland, Italy, Scotland, South Africa, and Wales which has elevated the league to new heights.

“The Vodacom United Rugby Championship is committed to continuing this pace of growth in the new season and far into the future.”