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Worcester Warriors Officially Rejoin Professional Rugby in Revamped Tier 2 League

The club's return follows a rigorous RFU vetting process, with financial guarantees and debt repayment commitments from new owner Christopher Holland.

Rugby Union - Worcester Warriors - Sixways Stadium, Worcester, Britain - October 8, 2022 General view of Worcester Warriors' Sixways Stadium.  Action Images via Reuters/Carl Recine/File Photo
There are high hopes that this is a new dawn for Worcester (Photo: Getty)
Lawrence, now at Bath, was one of the players forced to find a new club when Worcester went bust
Scotland star Duhan van de Merwe used to play for Worcester Warriors (Photo: Getty)

Overview

  • Worcester Warriors have been accepted into the new 14-club Tier 2 Championship for the 2025-26 season, marking their return to professional rugby after a financial collapse in 2022.
  • The club's re-entry is contingent on settling outstanding debts to HMRC and DCMS by the end of 2025, as part of conditions set by the Rugby Football Union (RFU).
  • Owner Christopher Holland has provided a financial security guarantee and committed to paying off debts to rugby creditors left by previous ownership.
  • Worcester will continue to play at Sixways Stadium, with plans to expand capacity, develop additional facilities, and establish a competitive squad for the upcoming season.
  • Concerns have been raised by other clubs regarding the fairness of Worcester's expedited return, but the RFU emphasized the rigorous vetting process and financial assurances provided.