Rugby Australia Shuts Down Melbourne Rebels After 14 Seasons Due to Financial Difficulties

May 30, 2024, 12:50 AM

Rugby Australia has shut down the Melbourne Rebels after 14 seasons due to financial difficulties. The decision follows the rejection of a participation agreement application by a consortium aiming to save the club. The governing body cited an 'unacceptable level of risk' in the rescue plan. This move ends the Rebels' hopes of playing in the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season and sets the stage for a potential court battle with the consortium. Melbourne Rebels players have been called to a meeting with Rugby Australia at AAMI Park on Thursday morning.