Billionaire businessman Sir James Dyson has purchased a 50 percent ownership stake in the group that includes Bath Rugby, Arena 1865 (the club’s stadium development company), and the Farleigh training facilities. This new partnership creates a long-term 50:50 collaboration between Dyson and current owner Bruce Craig, who will continue to manage Bath Rugby and oversee its future growth both on and off the pitch.
As part of the deal, Sir James Dyson will inject significant new capital to reduce existing debts and support the construction of Bath Rugby’s new stadium. The club’s most recent financial report, covering the year ending June 30, 2024, showed a 12.9% increase in losses—from £3.26 million to £3.68 million. Craig also increased his interest-free loan to the club by £5.9 million, bringing his total loan amount to £30.1 million, repayable with 12 months’ notice.
Plans were approved last year to replace the current temporary stands at the Recreation Ground with an 18,000-seat stadium, a three-year construction project. Bath Rugby will continue to play at the Recreation Ground throughout the building phase.
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Since acquiring the club in 2009, Bruce Craig has steered Bath Rugby through the challenges of the pandemic and broader industry uncertainties, transforming it into one of rugby’s elite teams. The recent historic treble—winning the league after a 29-year wait—signaled a major milestone in the club’s progress, according to an official statement.
Sir James Dyson, a supporter of Bath Rugby for over 45 years, described the partnership as deeply personal: “This is the club I have supported for most of my life, along with my children and grandchildren. I have stood on the terraces through highs and lows. Bruce deserves great respect for rebuilding the club into the force it is today. I am not here to change that but to support it with greater commitment and responsibility.”
He added, “My family and I are proud to stand alongside Bruce as equal partners to strengthen Bath Rugby’s foundations, realize the new stadium, and secure the club’s future. Bath Rugby holds a special place in this city and among the most dedicated supporters.”
Bruce Craig emphasized the continuity and shared vision the partnership represents: “This has never been a short-term project. Our goal has always been to build a resilient, competitive club worthy of its rich history. James understands Bath Rugby as a supporter and friend, and it was only natural that our paths would align. I will continue to lead Bath Rugby, and together we will strengthen the club’s foundations, deliver the new stadium, and build for generations to come.”