Steve Borthwick's Side Lost Four of Five Matches, Finishing Fifth and Reducing Prize Money

The Rugby Football Union expects a £10m loss for the financial year ending June 2026, driven by England's worst Six Nations campaign, the Guardian can reveal. Steve Borthwick's side lost four of five matches, finishing fifth and reducing prize money. The union forecasts an underlying loss of £4m and a total net loss of £10m, down from an £8m underlying profit and £2m total loss the prior year.

RFU chief executive Bill Sweeney said the union has "continued to perform in line with our plans despite significant headwinds, but the position would have worsened without an extra autumn fixture against Australia. Borthwick received backing after a review, following defeats to Italy and South Africa, then wins over Fiji and Argentina. The RFU highlights a 50% rise in sponsorship revenue since 2024 and plans a new deal with a sponsor on England jerseys, claiming it will have the "largest sponsorship revenue in world rugby.

England hosted only two home Tests in the Six Nations, and the loss underscores reliance on Twickenham matches, which account for about 85% of revenues. Insiders cite a "light calendar" as more significant than the on-field flop. The RFU submitted a planning application to Richmond council to host more concerts at Twickenham, aiming for eight non-sporting events by 2029, up from three, at a cost of up to £2m, with a decision expected in October.

The union has no bank debt but will need a loan for its £660m stadium overhaul. The year ending 2028, including the 2027 World Cup, will be the most damaging. For 2024, the RFU posted a record operating loss of £37.9m, and Sweeney's bonus took his salary to £1.1m, sparking outrage and a special general meeting in March 2025.