No green light: RFU threatens to leave Twickenham over Beyoncé spat

Today at 11:05 AM

• RFU wants license to stage more concerts and events
• Sweeney moots move to Milton Keynes or Birmingham

The Rugby Football Union chief executive, Bill Sweeney, has threatened to take England away from Twickenham and move to Milton Keynes or Birmingham due to licensing restrictions after missing out on lucrative Beyoncé concerts at the stadium. Sweeney has warned that if Richmond council does not grant the RFU permission to stage more non-rugby events at Twickenham, "it would be a tough call for us" with moves away from London mooted.

The RFU has previously explored buying half of Wembley and a move to a greenfield site in Birmingham, an acknowledgment that Twickenham is not fit for purpose. The RFU ultimately committed to its plans to revamp Twickenham, due to begin in 2027 and which could cost up to £663m, but needs to raise revenues by hosting more music concerts.