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9h ago

RFU Proposes Twickenham as Temporary Home for Chelsea During Stamford Bridge Redevelopment

The Rugby Football Union advances plans to host Chelsea matches, pending Richmond Council approval, while pursuing expanded non-rugby event licences and a £660 million stadium overhaul.

The RFU is keen to host more non-rugby events at Twickenham — and is open to becoming Chelsea’s temporary home

Overview

  • The RFU has formally offered Twickenham Stadium as a temporary venue for Chelsea FC during the redevelopment of Stamford Bridge, which aims to expand capacity from 42,000 to 60,000.
  • Hosting Chelsea matches would require Richmond Borough Council's approval to expand Twickenham's non-rugby event licence, currently capped at three events per year with a 55,000 capacity limit.
  • The RFU is lobbying to increase non-rugby events to up to 15 annually with a capacity of 75,000–82,000, citing significant financial benefits and positive progress in negotiations with the council and residents.
  • A recent survey found 75% of local residents within 15 minutes of the stadium support hosting more non-rugby events, bolstering the RFU's case for licence expansion.
  • The proposal aligns with the RFU's broader strategy to modernize Twickenham through a £660 million redevelopment and diversify revenue streams to ensure long-term financial stability.