The Rugby Football Union will undergo an independent review of its executive pay scheme, as grassroots clubs demand accountability and threaten to oust top executives Bill Sweeney and Tom Ilube amid a growing scandal

The Rugby Football Union (RFU) is under intense pressure following a growing rebellion from grassroots clubs, as the controversy surrounding executive pay intensifies. The RFU has announced an independent review into its executive pay schemes, which have sparked outrage across the sport. This review comes as a significant motion calling for the dismissal of RFU chairman Tom Ilube and chief executive Bill Sweeney gains traction, with grassroots clubs leading the charge.

A vote of no confidence could take place as early as next year, with a motion to remove the pair now backed by 187 clubs. This exceeds the 100-signature threshold required to trigger a special general meeting within 45 days, setting the stage for a decisive vote by the end of February 2025. If successful, a two-thirds majority vote would see Sweeney and Ilube removed from their positions, marking a seismic shift at the top of English rugby.

The controversy stems from revelations about Sweeney’s salary, which has fuelled growing discontent. In the year leading up to June 2024, Sweeney earned a total of £1.1 million, including a £742,000 salary and a £358,000 bonus linked to a ‘long-term incentive plan’ (LTIP). This pay package marks a sharp increase from the £430,000 he earned in the Covid-affected year of 2019-20. The LTIP, which was approved by Ilube, was intended to compensate senior leaders for sacrifices made during the pandemic, but has now come under intense scrutiny in light of the RFU’s dire financial situation.

The RFU’s recent announcement of record operating losses of £37.9 million has only exacerbated the situation, particularly after the union revealed plans to lay off over 40 staff members in yet another round of redundancies. The RFU had previously cut jobs in 2018 and 2020, further deepening the financial crisis.

In response to the growing backlash, the RFU council convened an emergency meeting this week, pledging to conduct an immediate independent review into the circumstances that led to the introduction of the LTIP. The council has also committed to improving communication with member clubs, acknowledging the reputational damage caused by the controversy. RFU president Rob Udwin stated, “Council recognises the reputational damage that has been done to the sport over the past month and is committed to rebuilding trust with our member clubs.”

There has been growing anger within the RFU, with some staff members expressing frustration at the disparity between the pay awarded to senior executives and the challenges facing the broader rugby community. Former RFU leaders Graeme Cattermole and Francis Baron have both publicly called for Sweeney and Ilube to step down, further adding to the pressure on the RFU’s top brass.

The situation remains fluid, with the next few weeks critical in determining the future of the RFU leadership. As grassroots clubs rally against the executives, the union’s council faces the challenge of restoring faith and navigating one of the most turbulent periods in English rugby history.