Chelsea Granted Approval to Host Home Matches at Twickenham While Stamford Bridge is Being Renovated -

Bill Sweeney, the RFU’s chief executive, is interested in hosting Chelsea matches at Twickenham while Stamford Bridge undergoes redevelopment.

Sweeney’s goal is to optimize revenue from the venue, which accommodates 82,000 spectators, proposing a temporary move for Chelsea.

Todd Boehly, Chelsea owner, in the directors box. — Todd Boehly desires to redevelop Stamford BridgeCredit: Getty

Fireworks over a rugby stadium before a match. — The Blues may temporarily play home games at TwickenhamCredit: Getty

Cole Palmer of Chelsea celebrating a goal. — Cole Palmer and others could transition to a temporary venueCredit: Getty

Chelsea intends to upgrade Stamford Bridge to increase its capacity to 60,000 from the current 42,000, requiring a temporary location during construction.

Meanwhile, Tottenham played at Wembley from 2017 to 2019 while constructing their new stadium. Hosting Chelsea could provide the RFU with a substantial financial advantage.

Sweeney notes that the venue is licensed for Premier League games, although he’s wary of potential objections from Richmond council.

Sweeney stated: “This could represent a significant financial opportunity. The license allows for this, and there have been prior talks about top Premier League clubs using this venue.”

“The Richmond council is especially concerned about the local impact, particularly regarding fan attendance,” he remarked, mentioning their cautious approach.

“The decision may depend on which club it is, but I believe they would certainly consider discussions.”

Recently, Sweeney suggested shifting England’s base to the Midlands, maybe Milton Keynes, due to disputes over Beyoncé concerts.

Twickenham couldn’t host the six performances she has scheduled at Spurs this summer, as there are limitations on the number of non-sporting events it can hold annually.

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Illustration of map showing Chelsea's potential move to Twickenham Stadium.

Currently restricted to three non-sporting events each year, Sweeney is hopeful about increasing this limit, which would boost RFU’s revenue and ensure they stay at Twickenham.

He commented: “We are making great progress with Richmond. Our talks have been positive, focusing on partnership.”

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“They understand the value we add to the area and the need for more non-rugby activities, especially when compared to Tottenham, Wembley, and the O2; they recognize why we require these events for financial viability.”

“We’ve just completed a survey with local residents, gathering feedback from those living within five to fifteen minutes of the stadium.”

“The support was higher than expected, with about 75% in favor of hosting additional non-rugby events at the venue.”

“I am confident we are heading in the right direction.”

The transition of England’s base from Twickenham would have been significant, especially with a £600 million refurbishment already planned.

“Our intention has always been to remain here,” Sweeney confirmed.

“This is not just about historical and cultural significance, but because hospitality and ticketing contribute to half our revenue, and this location is crucial geographically.”