Georgia, Portugal, Tunisia and Russia have been identified as key Tier 3 Unions for investment over the next three years.
“The IRB is committed to investing £1.5million in Tier 3 High Performance initiatives as part of the strategic investment programme over the next three years. The programme is designed to increase the competitiveness of international rugby,” explained IRB chairman Syd Millar.
“Following a recent in depth review of nine Tier 3 Unions, £900,000 will be invested in Georgia, Portugal and Tunisia. Based on the review and differing requirements Georgia and Portugal will both receive £360,000 and Tunisia £180,000 over three years. In addition Russia will receive a one-off payment of £40,000 for special project funding and we will meet with the Union this month to discuss the future development of Rugby in the country,” added Millar.
The investment comes on top of the annual development grants that Tier 3 Unions already receive. The investments will be used to develop high performance strategies in terms of player and coaching programmes and to improve Union management and playing infrastructures.
