Exeter Chiefs Members to Vote on Proposed US Takeover

Exeter Chiefs have finalised a proposed takeover involving a United States-based investor, with members set to vote on the deal at a special general meeting.

The proposal will be put to the club’s 700 members following agreement on the terms of the investment structure. Exeter Chiefs’ chairman Tony Rowe has previously indicated that external investment is being considered in response to long-term financial requirements at the club.

The development comes during a period of increased overseas investment across Premiership Rugby, including ownership changes involving Newcastle Falcons and Bath Rugby. Premiership Rugby has also been working with external advisers on international investment interest and structural changes to its competition model.

Exeter Chiefs reported post-tax losses of more than £10 million in its most recent accounts. The club has been a long-standing member-owned organisation since its rise to the top flight in 2010 and has competed in domestic and European competitions since then, including winning both the English Premiership and European title in 2020.

The club currently sits in fourth place in the Premiership Rugby table and has reached the semi-finals of the European Challenge Cup.

The proposed investment forms part of wider changes across English rugby union, where governing bodies have explored competition restructuring, expansion options and increased international investment interest in club ownership models.