NZ Rugby gives emergency grant to Super Rugby teams

All five NZ Super Rugby teams will be given $250,000 for the next three months.

New Zealand.- New Zealand Rugby will provide an emergency grant to Kiwi Super Rugby sides in the hope of ensuring teams are in good shape when the sport resumes after the Coronavirus crisis.

All five NZ Super Rugby teams (The Blues, Chiefs, Hurricanes, Crusaders and Highlanders) will be given $250,000 for the next three months.

“Super Rugby is a vital part of our rugby eco-system and has a solid 25-year track record as a strong and admired rugby competition that has valuable intellectual property and a legacy of world-class rugby,” NZR CEO, Mark Robinson, said.

“These decisions are about protecting the core capability of the Super Rugby clubs so that they are ready to hit the ground running if Super Rugby resumes later this year, and also be in a position to revive and participate in Super Rugby in whatever shape it takes in 2021 and beyond.

“Super Rugby clubs normally earn all their revenue through commercial and gate activities. All Clubs are doing a range of things to keep their organisations viable through this challenging time.

“In addition, just like NZR, Super Rugby Clubs have also made necessary changes because of the Covid-19 crisis, including budget cuts and staffing changes.

“The emergency grant is necessary so that Super Rugby clubs can survive and be ready to grow their revenue once we are through the pandemic.”

Five countries are represented in Super Rugby across the Southern Hemisphere, including Argentina, Japan, Australia, South Africa and New Zealand.