Gatland Welcomes Qatari Investment Boost for the Game
Wales head coach Warren Gatland has embraced the prospect of Qatari investment into rugby, insisting that a fresh financial injection from the Middle East is precisely what the sport needs.
On Saturday, Gatland will lead his team to Twickenham for a clash with double world champions South Africa, with the Qatar Airways Cup up for grabs. Both Wales and the Springboks are understood to be benefiting financially from the match through Qatar Airways’ sponsorship agreement, which is owned by the Qatari government.
Qatar is also set to host the inaugural Nations Championship tournament from 2026, with organizers planning to stage a ‘Superbowl of rugby’ in the country. The 12 national teams competing are expected to earn a staggering £800 million over an eight-year period.
“Take the money and run – that’s my approach,” he joked when asked about rugby’s partnership with Qatar. “I think it is what the game needs. I do care where the money comes from.”
Gatland acknowledged the significant financial strain that rugby has faced in recent years, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. He believes that the investment from Qatar could be a positive step in terms of growing the game globally.
“If there is a chance to look at external investment, I don’t see any reason why rugby should not be looking at different opportunities. It has been done in golf as well,” Gatland said.
As for the upcoming match against the Springboks, Gatland has named a young side, with flanker Jac Morgan ruled out due to a hamstring injury. Hooker Dewi Lake will captain the team in Morgan’s absence.
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