SA Rugby moves to squash unfounded rumours concerning WP Rugby

SA Rugby has denied reports suggesting that it has appointed a a new administrator to run the Western Province Rugby Football Union.

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In 2021, SA Rugby invoked its constitutional power to take administrative control of the WPRFU, which controls 100% of its commercial arm, Western Province Professional Rugby.

This followed months of controversy and infighting which brought the union to the brink of bankruptcy, while there were several attempts to have a vote of no confidence brought against the WP president.

At the time Rian Oberholzer was appointed as the WPRFU administrator, but following his recent elevation to CEO of SA Rugby at the beginning of March, the governing body is primed to name a new administrator to oversee WP’s affairs.

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SA RUGBY DISMISSES REPORT AS FAKE NEWS

Sunday newspaper Rapport reported today that Chris Swift has been appointed to replace Oberholzer as the WPRFU administrator, but SA Rugby has quickly dismissed the report at fake news.

In a media statement issued on Sunday afternoon, SA Rugby dismissed the rumour as a falsehood.

“Media are advised that reports that Chris Swift has been appointed as administrator of the Western Province Rugby Football Union are incorrect,” read the statement.

“An announcement is expected to be made shortly once the South African Rugby Union Executive Council has considered the recommendation of its Finance Committee.”

“The new incumbent replaces Rian Oberholzer who was appointed CEO of SA Rugby at the beginning of March.”

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