The major professional rugby clubs of Europe met for the first time in Lyon today (December 13th).
The main objective was to compare respective competitive structures and seek to achieve harmonisation.
The clubs agreed to :
Form the European Professional Rugby Clubs Association – this body will represent the major professional rugby clubs of England, France, Wales and Italy along with representatives of Scottish and Spanish clubs. In addition player representation will be a fundamental element of the organisation.
The organisation will continue to address the key issues facing professional club rugby in Europe, including:
A uniform European competition structure to incorporate a 41 week playing season starting on September 1st 2001.
The Adoption of squad capping systems across the major European playing nations including standard budgetary controls.
The creation of a licensing system for player agents.
Further work will take place over the next month leading to the production of a charter for the Association in the Spring.
For more details contact:
Cohn & Wolfe
Tel: 020 7331 5300
Fax: 020 7331 9085
e-mail: anthony_kayne@uk.cohnwolfe.com
