URC club's future in doubt
12/17/2024 12:28 AM
Zebre Parma may be replaced by a new Italian franchise next season, with the struggling outfit reportedly expected to know their fate this week.
According to Italian journalist Ivan Malfatto in Il Gazzettino, the Federazione Italiana Rugby (FIR) is expected to make a decision on Zebre's future at a meeting on Tuesday, with reports suggesting the Vodacom URC club will close by June 2025.
Malfatto revealed that the FIR is exploring options for a new privately funded franchise, similar to Benetton's independent model. He reported: "The Italian Rugby Union council will approve criteria for an investor to acquire the Parma [Zebre] Rugby Franchise license."
The proposed replacement could be based in Padua, backed by industrialist Alessandro Banzato, who is reportedly prepared to invest €5 million annually. URC directors have already inspected the Petrarca facilities in Padua and given their approval.
The overhaul could result in a rebranding, with RugbyPass speculating that Zebre's name and identity may not survive. FIR president Andrea Duodo, elected on promises to review Zebre's future, has highlighted the club's financial strain on Italian rugby.
If the license is sold, the FIR would retain a minority stake in the new franchise, reducing top-level costs and freeing funds for grassroots development.
Photo: Roberto Bregani/Gallo Images
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