Vodacom URC CEO Martin Anayi expects significant on- and off-field benefits when the Bulls, Stormers, Lions and Sharks receive full membership status by the end of June.
The move grants the SA Rugby Union (Saru) and its four franchises equity in the URC and EPCR competitions (Investec Champions Cup and Challenge Cup), fundamentally altering their relationship with European rugby’s premier tournaments.
Saru’s elevation to full shareholder status promises substantial financial gains, eliminating annual participation fees and redirecting broadcaster and sponsor revenue directly through the URC structure.
“We effectively treat the South African Rugby Union and the four franchises the same way we do all our members already,” Anayi was quoted by Rugby365. “They are on the same boards and committees. They have the same decision-making [powers].”
While Anayi describes the change as “procedural”, the implications extend beyond the boardroom. “The South African teams have been super competitive,” he noted, highlighting Saturday’s Bulls-Sharks semi-final in Pretoria where over 40 000 tickets have been sold.
“It is a very positive relationship. We feel they want to be part of it and are putting the [URC] league first. Commercially, it [SA’s full membership] is fantastic.
“It starts with how competitive those teams are. It is right up there. They are pushing the standards and making the league even more competitive.
“It is an important change, becoming a full shareholder,” Anayi added. “They will have equity in the league at that point.”
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