Twickenham Stadium could host the Blues if they need a temporary home, says Rugby Football Union chief
Chelsea could play their home games in the world’s largest rugby stadium, after Rugby Football Union (RFU) chief executive Bill Sweeney revealed that Twickenham Stadium could be available to the Blues should they require a temporary home during the redevelopment of Stamford Bridge.
The West London club have been exploring a major overhaul of Stamford Bridge for years, aiming to modernise the ground and significantly expand its capacity. Chelsea’s new ownership group in particular, led by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, have been weighing several options upgrade the stadium and boost matchday revenues.
Speaking to The Guardian, Sweeney confirmed that the RFU would be open to hosting Chelsea at Twickenham if needed, although he warned that local government considerations could make things difficult.
“[The RFU’s licence] would allow it to happen. There have been conversations previously about possible Premiership [sic] clubs coming here,” Sweeney explained.
“Richmond council, Richmond borough is more concerned about that. I just think in terms of impact on local residents, numbers of fans and so on they’re a little bit more sensitive.
“It may depend on which club it is. It would be a big financial number, I know Richmond borough would definitely have a conversation about that though.”
While Twickenham, the largest stadium in the UK after Wembley, boasts a capacity of around 82,000, hosting Premier League football matches there would be a matter of serious controversy.
Concerns about crowd management and impact on the surrounding residential areas would likely prompt intense scrutiny from local authorities, particularly Richmond Council, which is known for its cautious approach to major sporting events.
