Eddie Jordan Eyeing Premiership Club Takeover To Create The Man City Of Rugby

12/06/2024 02:54 AM

Formula 1 entrepreneur Eddie Jordan is setting his sights on the rugby world, aiming to become the first owner to create a network of European rugby clubs akin to the City Football Group.

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London Irish on the Radar

According to The Times, Jordan’s ambitious vision includes acquiring the troubled London Irish, a move that could reshape the rugby landscape. But that’s not all—he’s also part of a consortium looking to snap up the French ProD2 club AS Béziers Hérault, teaming up with former South Africa No. 8 Bobby Skinstad and former New Zealand fly-half Andrew Mehrtens.

It is believed there are no active clubs run by a shared private owner, according to The Times. A multi-club ownership structure would mirror the model that is now prevalent in soccer, notably with Manchester City owner City Football Group (CFG).

Backed by Financial Heavyweights

This consortium is not flying solo; they're supported by Strangford Capital, a private equity firm from Northern Ireland. Jordan, known for his sharp insights in Formula One, plays a dual role as both an investor and adviser for the firm.

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The Man Behind the Vision

Eddie Jordan may currently be a headline grabber for his opinions on Formula One, but it's his roots in the sport that have paved the way for his immense wealth. With a staggering net worth of £486 million, he stands as one of the wealthiest figures in sports—outshining even the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Roger Federer!

The Rugby Future Awaits

With such financial backing and a solid plan in place, could we be witnessing the dawn of a new era in European rugby? Eddie Jordan’s

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Mike and Zara Tindall Revealed as Rugby's THIRD Richest Couple

5. Johnny and Laura Sexton – £6m

Together since their teens, Johnny Sexton and his wife Laura are one of rugby's wealthiest couples.

Known for their close-knit family, with three children often seen pitchside, the Sextons met at Rathgar Tennis Club and tied the knot in 2013.

From Dublin's Saint Mary's College to University College Dublin, Johnny and Laura have been through it all. Their story, filled with love and commitment, has captivated fans just as much as Johnny's rugby career.

4. Siya and Rachel Kolisi – £10m

With an empire worth an estimated £10 million, Siya and Rachel Kolisi were not just a power couple but partners in philanthropy. Known for their foundation and work in communities, the couple planned to keep collaborating on their projects, even as they transition to a new chapter.

Siya recently rejoined the Sharks in South Africa after a stint with French side Racing, but despite their split, Rachel remains the “rock” Siya has always called her.

Though the Kolisis' marriage may be over, their legacy as one of South Africa's most-loved couples will continue to inspire fans across the globe.

3. Mike and Zara Tindall – £20m

Mike Tindall is known not just for his rugby prowess but for his royal connections. As the husband of Zara Phillips, the granddaughter of Queen Elizabeth II, Tindall has become a prominent figure in British media.

Nicknamed "The Fridge" due to his imposing physique, Tindall was a stalwart on the rugby field, famously breaking his nose at least eight times over the course of his career. Since retiring from the sport, he's made a name for himself in the entertainment world, appearing on popular reality shows such as I'm a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here, Bear Grylls: Mission Survive, The Jump, Shark Cage, Celebrity Poker Club, and All-Star Poker Challenge.

Despite his success in sports and entertainment, Tindall's wealth has been largely bolstered by his royal ties, with his net worth estimated at £20 million, according to British media.

2. Jonny and Shelley Wilkinson – £22m

Jonny Wilkinson is a legendary figure in English rugby, with a career spanning 12 seasons at Newcastle Falcons before his move to French club Toulon in 2009. Wilkinson cemented his place in history by leading England to victory in the 2003 Rugby World Cup, becoming a national hero in the process.

In his personal life, Wilkinson has kept a lower profile. He married his long-time girlfriend, Shelley Jenkins, in a private ceremony on the French Riviera in October 2013.

The couple now has a son, reportedly named James, and maintain a relatively private family life. Wilkinson’s net worth stands at £22 million, making him one of rugby’s wealthiest figures.

1. Sonny Bill and Alana Williams – £20m

Sonny Bill Williams is a sporting icon from New Zealand, famed not only for his rugby achievements but also for his ventures into boxing. Known for his versatility, Williams has excelled in both rugby union and rugby league, playing as a centre and second-rower, respectively. Additionally, his brief yet successful stint in professional boxing saw him win nine out of 10 heavyweight bouts.

In 2013, Williams married Alana Raffie after a whirlwind four-week romance, following Islamic traditions despite admitting that they were not in love at the time.

Their union has since become one of the most talked-about in sports. With a combination of earnings from rugby, boxing, and endorsements, the couple’s net worth is reported to be around £20 million.

NAME EVERY PREMIERSHIP RUGBY CLUB:

London Welsh were the last new team to play in the Gallagher Premiership back in 2011 – can you name the others?

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