England could leave Twickenham for Milton Keynes or Birmingham, says RFU chief
Bill Sweeney says there are “plenty of places that would like to have us”.
England may be forced to relocate from Allianz Stadium to Milton Keynes or Birmingham because of licence restrictions over staging concerts, according to Rugby Football Union chief executive Bill Sweeney.
The RFU views major events such as Beyonce concerts as a key revenue stream to help fund the planned £663million redevelopment of Twickenham, which is due to start in 2027.
However, Richmond upon Thames Council imposes limitations on the number of non-sporting events that can be held at the 82,000-capacity ground, which is almost exclusively used for rugby purposes including hosting all home fixtures for the England men’s team.
“There are plenty of places that would like to have us. Birmingham and Milton Keynes would love to have us there,” Sweeney told the Business of Sport podcast.
“Part of the renovation from 2027 means we are in discussions with Richmond borough council to stage more non-rugby events. For us it is three and we are only allowed one on a Friday.
“We have had the Rolling Stones. We could have had Beyonce but she wanted three nights and we are only allowed two nights consecutively.
“It would be a tough call for us. It would be very difficult. I don’t know how we would justify the investment in the stadium if we can’t get the increase in the event licences.”
The RFU revealed last year that it looked at moving to Wembley and a greenfield site in the Birmingham area before opting to remain at Twickenham and upgrade the existing stadium.
