Premiership Rugby acknowledged the “progress” made in Dublin earlier today but stressed that “there remain some significant ones which have not yet been addressed.”
In a statement released tonight, the English clubs governing body also stated that the details about the format of the new European Cup announced by the ERC were the same as the proposed Champions Cup.
The full statement read: “The formation of the new Rugby Champions Cup was announced by the English and French clubs on 22 September and the Welsh Regions have confirmed their full support this week. The new competitions are open to teams from all three leagues in Europe and the working group continues to prepare the necessary elements in good time for the 2014/15 Season.
“Premiership Rugby notes from today’s statement on behalf of independent mediators Graeme Mew and Stephen Drymer that progress has been made on some key issues although there remain some significant ones which have not yet been addressed.
“Over the last few weeks of discussions, the French and English clubs have reiterated previous commitments concerning the Rugby Champions Cup and provided a number of new solutions for issues raised by the Unions in order to clear the way for other teams to participate, including:
- The new Rugby Champions Cup is proposed to be under the overall regulatory responsibility of the Six Nations for compliance with IRB regulations, the provision of disciplinary services and the appointment of match officials.
- The three Leagues will organise and manage the new Rugby Champions Cup competitions and maximise all the commercial rights.
- In the 20-team top competition, there would be 7 places guaranteed for the RaboDirect Pro12 league.
- Within the 7 automatic places, there must be at least one team from each country.
- The French and English leagues will provide a minimum financial guarantee for the teams from the RaboDirect Pro12.
“Further details of the Rugby Champions Cup will be announced in due course.”
