Billionaire mining magnate Andrew Forrest has bluntly warned the Australian Rugby Union that he will fight any moves to cut Western Force from Super Rugby.
Western Force in action Photo: Photosport
The ARU has committed to culling either the Perth-based Force or Melbourne Rebels from the competition as it contracts to 15 teams next season.
Both teams have pledged to fight for their survival, through the courts if necessary.
"I want to be very clear to the ARU," said Forrest today.
Australian mining billionaire Andrew "Twiggy" Forrest (file photo - 2012) Photo: AFP
"You try to cut the Western Force, you have to go through me first, and then all of our players, and then our supporters, and then all of the parents of young players and, indeed, all proud Western Australians.
"This is bigger than just a rugby game. I stand behind all of these amazing people who believe in a fair go and the right for Australians to support rugby union as a national sport, not just one reduced to the eastern seaboard."
Forrest, chairman of major iron ore producer Fortescue Metals Group Ltd and one of Australia's richest men, has already offered interest-free loans of up to A$1,000 to fans who have pledged to buy team shares, with the money repaid to Western Australia state's rugby governing body rather than the mining billionaire.
The Force entered arbitration with the governing ARU last week and a decision is expected later this week.
With Forrest throwing his weight behind the team, even if the ruling goes in favour of the ARU it is unlikely to be the last word on the Force's future.
Instead, the cash-strapped governing body could be drawn into a long legal battle it can ill afford.
- Reuters