Could rugby’s answer to the City Football Group be on the horizon? F1 legend Eddie Jordan, ex-All Blacks fly-half Andrew Mehrtens, and former Springboks No. 8 Bobby Skinstad are assembling a consortium that might just revolutionize rugby ownership.
Join the RUCK’s WhatsApp community here and get the latest news sent straight to your messages.
With no existing shared ownership model in rugby akin to Manchester City’s global network of clubs, this ambitious trio – backed by Northern Ireland-based private equity firm Strangford Capital – could rewrite the playbook. Their first step? Taking control of French second-division side Béziers, where Mehrtens concluded his playing career.
Andrew Mehrtens: Béziers First, But Open to More
“Béziers is the priority,” Mehrtens insists, emphasising their commitment to the historic French club. But the group’s ambitions are far from limited to one team. Discussions are already underway with several former Gallagher Premiership clubs, including London Irish, Worcester, and Wasps – all casualties of English rugby’s 2022 financial crisis.
“We’re curious about the City Football Group model,” Mehrtens told Mail Online. “If a network of clubs benefits Béziers, it’s a win-win.”
Eddie Jordan: Back in the Game Despite Adversity
Despite revealing a battle with “quite aggressive” cancer, Jordan remains an active investor and advisor to Strangford. His presence adds undeniable star power to the consortium. “Meeting Eddie at the World Rugby Awards in Monaco was awesome,” Mehrtens said. “He brings a massive personal brand that gets people engaged.”
A Vision for Rugby’s Future
London Irish remains a key interest, with Jordan and Co. exploring the financial viability of resurrecting the club. Meanwhile, Worcester and Wasps are eyeing a return in a revamped second-tier competition.
Is this the start of a rugby revolution? For now, the group’s focus is on building Béziers – but with Jordan, Mehrtens, and Skinstad steering the ship, the horizon seems packed with opportunities. Could this consortium become rugby’s first true multi-club empire? Watch this space.
EDITORS PICKS:
- Statement: Newcastle coach departs with immediate effect
- Jonny May will quit rugby for career in the forces
- Statement: England forward signs fresh new contract
- Manu Tuilagi offers support and love to “third gender” sibling
- Exeter Chiefs boss blames players decision for poor form
Quiz: Name these 10 retro rugby players
From jaw-dropping tries to unforgettable moments (and yes, some questionable haircuts), these players defined a golden era of the game. If their names don’t instantly come to mind, we suggest a quick trip to YouTube to jog your memory. Trust us, it’s worth it.
Ready to test your knowledge? Let’s see if you’ve still got it. Good luck!
More Quizzes:
- Can you name the entire British & Irish Lions squad from their tour of New Zealand in 2005?
- Can you name every England Rugby captain of the professional era?
- Can You Name Every British & Irish Lions Captain Since 2001?
- Quiz: Can You Name the Top 10 Most-Capped Springbok Men’s Players?
