Worcester statement: Application to join the new Tier 2 league

Worcester have confirmed they are pressing ahead with their bid to join next season’s newly imagined Tier 2 league in England. The Warriors last played in September 2022, beating Newcastle at Sixways before getting suspended from the Gallagher Premiership and then falling into administration.

They were the first of three top-flight clubs to go bust in the space of a few months, with Wasps and London Irish soon following suit. All three last month expressed an initial interest in potentially coming back to play in the 2025/26 second tier and Worcester have now followed through by submitting its formal application to play.

A statement read: “Worcester Warriors are pleased to confirm that we have formally submitted our application to the Rugby Football Union (RFU) to join the new Tier 2 league.

“This move is a significant step in our ongoing commitment to return to competitive rugby at Sixways and build a sustainable future for the club. We look forward to working closely with the RFU throughout the application process and will keep fans and supporters updated on our progress.

“We acknowledge that there are still many hurdles to cross and eagerly anticipate the next challenge. Further updates will be shared as we progress through the application stage.”