Champ Rugby club secures landmark investment, edges closer to Prem promotion

The Champ Rugby side has secured backing from J. Kenneth (“Kenn”) Moritz and John H. Tippins, principals of Stonewood Capital Management, Inc., a Pittsburgh-based investment firm known for supporting growth-focused businesses and strategic projects.

The transatlantic partnership represents a major step forward for the club, underlining both rugby’s growing international appeal and the opportunities created by Cornish Pirates’ long-term ambitions.

Moritz and Tippins bring significant experience from one of America’s most established sporting cities. Pittsburgh is home to several major professional sports franchises and is currently bidding to become a host city for the 2031 Rugby World Cup in the United States.

Their involvement reflects confidence not only in Cornish Pirates’ plans, but also in the wider growth potential of rugby in the US market.

CEO Sally Pettipher said, “This is a hugely significant moment for Cornish Pirates. To attract investment from experienced US investors of this calibre is a powerful endorsement of our strategy, our people and our long-term vision to build real value, both financial and social.”

The investment supports the club’s wider 10-year strategy, which includes:

By securing US investment at this stage, Cornish Pirates are positioning themselves at the forefront of rugby’s global expansion, connecting two markets with strong sporting traditions and shared ambition.

Kenn Moritz said: “We see a compelling opportunity in Cornish Pirates — a club with a proud history, a passionate community and a clear strategic plan for growth. Rugby is entering an exciting global phase, and we believe this investment places us at the heart of that journey.”

John Tippins added: “Coming from Pittsburgh, we understand the power of sport to unite communities and drive economic growth. Cornwall has that same passion, and we are excited to support the Pirates as they build something truly special.”

The announcement comes amid significant structural change within English rugby. Since PREM Rugby adopted a franchise-style model, it has previously been reported that almost a third of Champ Rugby clubs have entered discussions with potential investors.

Under the new PREM Rugby structure, promotion and relegation will be removed. Clubs seeking entry into PREM Rugby will instead need to secure sufficient investment and demonstrate robust off-field plans as part of the application process.

Rather than earning promotion through a Champ Rugby play-off and meeting minimum standards, clubs will now be assessed against a wider set of commercial and operational criteria.

The changes are due to come into effect next season and are designed to make PREM Rugby a more attractive proposition for investors.

Early indications suggest the model is already generating interest, with Red Bull and Sir James Dyson making notable investments this season, while AFC Bournemouth owners Black Knight are preparing to complete a takeover of Exeter Chiefs.

Cornish Pirates’ latest investment also points to growing confidence in Champ Rugby clubs as investment opportunities in their own right, as interest in the sport continues to expand internationally ahead of the 2031 Rugby World Cup in the United States.