Beyoncé and K-pop Absent Thus South Africa vs Argentina Needs to Enhance Rugby Football Union's Bank Balance
One rapid scan regarding Twickenham Stadium's upcoming events and unfortunately, again no the music icon. No Bills, Bills, Bills for the union's leadership at this time. Actually, the RFU's goal to organize additional music events and thereby finance Twickenham’s £660 million redevelopment has met with a slight setback.
A council paper, seen by a major newspaper, reads: “Considering the doubts concerning the ability of the rail industry to accommodate the expected surge in passengers, there exist serious issues regarding the extra pressure imposed on the transport and highway network by event goers and the question of whether this requirement can be properly addressed. This is likely to result in a major disruption for local inhabitants.”
It is far from insurmountable but few would disagree seasoned rugby fans who disagree.
Simultaneously, an extended council session on Tuesday to discuss the RFU’s licensing application showed that officials received 192 representations against, 13 approvals. A ruling is due next week but the planning verdict will be conclusive in a process that will extend into the coming year.
For now, the union’s predicament was clearly demonstrated following an intended summer performance was abruptly transferred to the more compact but more modern O2 venue.
Obviously the RFU cannot attract the level of performers it desires to best make use of its massive venue because of present arrangements and restrictions.
Upping Sticks to Milton Keynes Still Feels Somewhat Unlikely
Yet the organization's commitment to leverage its main property takes us smoothly toward this weekend's match at Twickenham.
It is set to be a dramatic conclusion to the most captivating rugby competition in years, upwards of 70,000 are anticipated and it is definitely a profitable venture.
The game is managed by an experienced promoter and an industry expert, with a long track record organizing comparable events in Barbarians matches in London and comments, “similar to other ventures it’s usually based on financial considerations. It’s fair to say all parties involved are content with the deal they've agreed.”
Argentina Playing Host
Argentina are the “home” side – just as they were in the match with Australia back in 2016 – and it was their decision to approach the RFU.
They are set to earn considerably more revenue versus staging the game took place in Argentina, which will be an all-the-more-welcome cash boost due to the lack of the competition in 2026 and practically it is sensible.
Transportation after the recent game in South Africa is more forgiving and nearly all of their first-choice players on Saturday play in either European clubs.
South Africa’s Role
South Africa are the away side, simply along for the ride, however, this represents the third instance over three seasons they play a match in London without England's participation.
The RFU, for its part, receives a hefty stadium hire fee including revenue sources such as the bar takings which promise to be comparable to an England international given the bumper crowd that is expected.
As Sweeney has admitted, the stadium is the union's primary revenue source.
Is it surprising management is progressively permitting opposing nations utilize their facilities if they are willing to pay?
South Africa’s Willing Participation
The South African team could be happy to take part but it is no coincidence this game is viewed as particularly appropriate to host in London.
As an expert explained recently, the team bridges northern and southern rugby currently with their club sides playing in the United Rugby Championship.
The overseas population in London guarantees ticket sales and the UK time zone works well for fans in South Africa.
They visit the stadium safe in the knowledge that it benefits their objectives to enhance their profile on a global scale, especially if they wrap up the title on England’s turf convincingly.
Forward Planning and Worldwide Approach
They are also set to welcome the All Blacks for an extensive competition next summer, that will develop into a quadrennial, reciprocal tour, plus an additional international fixture is under discussion, most likely in Europe, maybe again at the London stadium.
The team could be the away side on Saturday but it's significant that Bongi Mbonambi could equal the English player's achievement of victories at the stadium in recent seasons should South Africa win in the Argentina match.
And the RFU, it seems, is quite pleased to welcome them - previous disputes including the ugly fallout from the 2023 World Cup semi-final and online comments from Rassie Erasmus regarding match officials evidently set aside.
The Stadium's Growing Role
In fact, it seems more and more Twickenham is being positioned as the northern hemisphere’s go-to neutral venue.
As the expert notes, ‘within the United Kingdom we host international events. We’ve got NFL matches here, top football nations compete, MLB games occur, fans are passionate about athletics”.
It is no way to break into growing regions – you wouldn’t seek to attract a new cricket audience by hosting a fixture at the historic ground – but periodic matches at the stadium becomes more logical.
