Tony Rowe, the long-serving chairman of Exeter Chiefs, has thrown his weight behind the proposed American takeover of the club, describing it as essential for the club's financial survival. The deal, which is subject to approval by the club's 700-odd members at an extraordinary general meeting on 7 May, would see a wealthy multi-sport investor, already involved in British football, take control of the 155-year-old West Country club.
Rowe, who has been instrumental in Exeter's rise from the lower leagues to Premiership champions, acknowledged that the romantic story of the club's success cannot continue without significant investment. 'We've got to wake up and smell the coffee,' he said. 'I've effectively run a business for the last 30-odd years for a shareholder who's got no money. What I'm looking forward to is an investor who's got some money.'
The chairman also advocated for expanding the Premiership from ten to 14 clubs, including the addition of two Welsh sides such as Swansea and Cardiff. 'Ten clubs is not enough. Financially it doesn't work for anybody,' Rowe argued. 'Welsh rugby is on its arse, isn't it? I think they can only really afford two [pro clubs].' He believes such a move would inject life into Welsh rugby and provide financial benefits for the English league.
Rowe criticised the previous government and the Rugby Football Union for their lack of support during the pandemic, which he said cost Exeter £25m. 'Every single Prem chairman would tell you Covid cost them in excess of £20m each,' he added. 'Without the chairmen and owners you wouldn't have an English Premiership and you wouldn't have an England.'
The proposed ownership change follows similar investments at Newcastle Red Bulls and Bath, reflecting a trend of American capital entering English rugby. Rowe is optimistic about the future, stating that 'all the stars are aligned to transform English rugby beyond where it is today.'
