Rugby Football Union Reports Record Revenue Of More Than $242M During '12-13

The Rugby Football Union has reported group revenue of more than £150M ($242M) for the first time in its history, according to the BELFAST TELEGRAPH. Revenue increased by £42.9M ($69M) from £110.6M to £153.5M ($247M) during the 12-month period for '12-13, "driven by the full match programme and increased sponsorship." The figures "confirm the RFU's position as the world's richest union." RFU CEO Ian Ritchie said, "We have made significant strides across the board allowing us to invest an additional £3.5 million ($5.6M) in grassroots rugby, largely thanks to a busy calendar of Twickenham events" (BELFAST TELEGRAPH, 11/16). SKY SPORTS reported the body's annual reports and accounts "also show investment in the sport as a whole rising" by 15% to just under £64M ($103M) (SKY SPORTS, 11/16).