Rugby
Bill Sweeney survives but unedifying saga has done English rugby little good
And so the rebellion is quashed. Decisively, too. After months of infighting, mud-slinging and rancour, Bill Sweeney remains as chief executive of the Rugby Football Union (RFU), a vote of no confidence failing to pass – 206 for the motion, 466 against. Perversely, perhaps, given the strength of feeling seemingly building against the chief, Sweeney’s resounding victory means his position has seldom felt stronger.
Certainly, that is how the RFU will feel. “I am pleased to see such a decisive outcome,” said interim chairman Bill Beaumont, he and the board’s backing of Sweeney seemingly vindicated. “I trust that those who supported this motion will honour and accept the result on this tonight and let’s work forward to make changes.
“Let’s stand together, and focus on what we can achieve together, and work to ensure that the Rugby Football Union continues to thrive, evolve, and lead the way in rugby. The time for division is behind us. The time for collaboration is now.”