Overview

• Worcester Warriors will rejoin professional rugby in the 2025-26 season as part of an expanded 14-team Championship, including 12 existing clubs and one promoted team from National League One.
• The club's return follows rigorous RFU requirements, including a financial security guarantee and commitments to repay debts to rugby creditors and government bodies by the end of 2025.
• Under new ownership by Chris Holland, Worcester has been assembling a competitive squad and preparing Sixways Stadium for multi-sport and commercial use to ensure financial sustainability.
• The RFU is exploring a rebranding of the Championship and a potential joint television deal with the Premiership to boost visibility and revenue for English rugby.
• Worcester's re-entry has drawn mixed reactions, with some clubs expressing frustration over their direct inclusion rather than starting at the bottom of the league system.