Yashenkov will lead unions through COVID-19 pandemic

Kirill Yashenkov, Presidential candidate in the forthcoming Rugby Europe elections, is committed to creating a clear financial and political strategy to support all Rugby Europe’s unions in facing the challenges presented by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The strategy, which forms the first core pillar of Yashenkov’s vision for a new and improved Rugby Europe, will focus on sponsorship, media partnerships and significant investment to raise the profile of European events to facilitate the commercial growth of rugby in Europe across all 48 nations, particularly in a post-Covid-19 environment.

Kirill Yashenkov, Vice President of the Rugby Union of Russia, said:

"The Covid-19 pandemic has had an extremely damaging impact on the whole of Europe’s rugby family and a clear and focused strategy is needed without delay. Our Unions must be given comprehensive support and assistance, not just for the challenges we face today, but for many years ahead.

"My vision for European rugby begins with the creation of a robust and collaborative commercial model which will allow us to invest heavily into this incredible sport and support hosting countries to create a high-quality product. No more will Europe’s finest rugby teams be seen in small, outdated stadiums with half-empty stands."

Yashenkov recognises the ever-increasing power of secure revenue streams such as broadcasting and sponsorship which will be vital for European rugby to prosper in a post-Covid-19 environment. Through a high-quality product, the popularity and level of rugby will accelerate considerably, therefore presenting a more attractive product to commercial partners worldwide.

"Now, more than ever, our stakeholders deserve to feel confident in Rugby Europe as a transparent, collaborative and trustworthy organisation, which doesn’t just reflect rugby’s values but is also capable of supporting them effectively. Rugby Europe must implement tangible solutions that will ensure not only the recovery, but the rapid-development of rugby in Europe. Through my vision and passion for rugby, I will ensure an incredible future for all of rugby’s unions, players and fans throughout Europe. People who know me, know that I am a man of my word who is serious about delivering my promises."

The vote for President of Rugby Europe will take place at the organisation’s annual congress on 4 December 2020 which will be held in a virtual format.

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