Rugby’s Future with Silver Lake, Warriors’ Cameron George, and South Island Kea NRL Bid David Moffett

In a recent turn of events, New Zealand Rugby is facing a future that may be hindered by a controversial deal with Silver Lake. The deal, which was signed two years ago, has been criticized for its lack of action and impact on the sport. This echoes similar concerns raised in Europe about private equity investments in rugby.

The deal with Silver Lake was initially touted as a game-changer for New Zealand Rugby, promising to bring in significant revenue and opportunities for growth. However, as time has passed, it has become apparent that the expectations set by the deal have not been met.

Similar to the situation in Europe, where private equity investments have failed to deliver on their promises, Silver Lake’s inactivity has left New Zealand Rugby exposed to a potential financial crunch. The broadcasting rights for rugby in New Zealand have seen a drop in value, raising concerns about the future of the sport.

The criticism of Silver Lake and other private equity investors highlights a growing trend in the sports industry. These investors are being seen as profit-driven entities that care little about the soul of the sport and are more focused on extracting value for themselves.

As New Zealand Rugby grapples with the fallout from the Silver Lake deal, the future of the sport hangs in the balance. The ongoing debate over the governance of the sport and the decision on the future of stadiums like Eden Park adds to the uncertainty surrounding rugby in New Zealand.

In the midst of these challenges, standout performers like Richie Mo’unga, Todd Blackadder, Aimee Fisher, and Mitchell Barnett continue to shine on the field, providing moments of inspiration for fans amidst the turmoil in the sport. However, the overarching question remains – what lies ahead for rugby in New Zealand, and how will it navigate the obstacles posed by private equity investments and governance issues?