IRFU at risk from doubts over Heineken Cup future

The uncertain future of the Heineken Cup is a significant risk to the IRFU’s financial health, the union’s Annual Council meeting was told last night.

English and French clubs have placed the competition under threat by signalling their intent to withdraw at the end of the 2013/14 season. The clubs are unhappy with the current structure and the qualifying process.

While that appears to be posturing ahead of discussions expected to begin in the autumn, treasurer Tom Grace warned delegates they must not take the threat to the competition lightly.