Wasps are poised to make a comeback in the south east after securing land in Kent for their new stadium. The former Premiership heavyweights, who went into administration with debts exceeding £95 million two years ago, recently applied for entry into the new Tier 2 competition, set to replace the Championship in 2024-25.
By acquiring a site in Swanley on a 10-year option, Wasps aim to tap into a rugby-loving region without a Premiership team. The twice European champions' ultimate goal is to return to the top tier of English rugby. "It's incredibly satisfying that we've reached this milestone with the backing of key stakeholders," said Wasps' owner, Christopher Holland. "This brings us closer to our dream of a new home in the region and underscores our commitment to rebuilding Wasps sustainably."
All teams aspiring to join Tier 2, which is expanding to a 14-team league, must demonstrate financial stability, including the ability to settle rugby creditors, and meet operational standards. A potential move to Kent would mark the fourth home for the storied English club, which spent most of its 157-year history in London before relocating to High Wycombe in 2002 and Coventry in 2014. Wasps are among three prominent clubs, alongside Worcester Warriors and London Irish, that have faced recent financial difficulties.
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