SportBusiness.com

More games give English RFU soaring profits

English Rugby Union’s governing body the RFU has recorded pre-tax profits of £8.4 million, following a loss of £800,000 the previous year.

The RFU's results for the year ending June 30 show an increase in ticket sales and matchday revenue, thanks primarily to a greater number of home internationals.

The Six Nations schedule and four November matches meant that Twickenham staged seven Tests over the 12-month period, two more than 2007-08.

"These results demonstrate a good performance in a difficult year," said RFU finance director Nick Eastwood. "The RFU results always benefit in those years when we have three home Six Nations games and a fourth autumn international."

The results also show turnover increased by 20 per cent to £119.2 million. The RFU admitted, however, that hospitality sales were down 40 per cent.