The Australian rugby community was left stunned in January, when the melbourne Rebels entered voluntary administration, weeks before the start of the Super Rugby Season.
The Rebels had been in trouble for some time, but things seemingly came to a head in January 2024, when the team’s ever-increasing debt became untenable.
Despite fielding an impressive side, the future of the Rebels will be no more in 2025, which raises the question – where will their players sign next?
Why are the Melbourne Rebels in voluntary administration?
It has been a brutal few years for the Melbourne Rebels, who are currently entering voluntary administration due to what is believed to be $9 million of debt owed.
Insolvency firm Wexted Advisors were called in by the Rebels in mid-January, seven years after the team was bailed out a first time by the state government.
The team and Rugby Victoria attempted to pin the blame on Rugby Australia, blaming $15 million in unpaid debts on lower funding contributions – allegations that were refuted by Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh, who insisted they met their obligations.
“We’re very diligent in terms of ensuring that we pay what we’re required to pay to our…
