Sharks boss Marco Masotti has stressed the need for innovative solutions to secure SA Rugby and the sport’s future in the country.
Masotti reportedly heads up one of two separate groups, the other led by Akshay Karan, that have proposed competing bids to rival Ackerley Sports Group (ASG) as SARU’s equity partner.
The Sharks majority shareholder, Masotti advocates for a coalition of local and international investors. “We can bring capital and new involvement to the table,” he told Sunday newspaper Rapport.
Highlighting the value of franchise shareholders like Johann Rupert and Patrice Motsepe, Masotti emphasised their contributions to South African rugby’s ecosystem. “This is a golden opportunity for our sport,” he added.
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The Masotti group’s proposal avoids commission fees, a contentious point in the ASG deal. “The agreement must be pure and transparent. Rugby is changing rapidly; we need expertise from business and sports to elevate the Springboks,” he said.
He also proposed appointing an independent advisor to guide the process.
Karan, representing the Altvest-led consortium, aims to democratise SA Rugby’s equity plan. “We believe South African businesses and ordinary citizens can provide the needed investment,” he told Rapport.
The consortium’s model allows fans to own shares in the Springboks via platforms like EasyEquities. “Imagine buying a jersey and owning a piece of the team,” Karan added.
Altvest values SA Rugby at $375 million (R6.7 billion) and offers to acquire a 20 to 40% stake with no commission. “Our structure is simpler and cheaper than ASG’s, which functions like a loan with minimal risk for the investor,” Karan said.
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