(Nov. 27, 2023) – Major League Rugby (MLR), which represents the highest level of rugby competition in North America, has announced the Toronto Arrows will cease operations, effectively immediately, and not compete in the 2024 MLR season.
MLR and the Arrows organization, together, explored all avenues in an effort to maintain the club’s presence in the League. Unfortunately, after exhausting all options, Toronto was left with no choice but to voluntarily withdraw from the league.
“We’re deeply grateful to the leadership of the Toronto Arrows who have cared so deeply about supporting and growing the game of rugby in Canada. Our immediate focus is on doing right by the Club and its players, as operations wind down,” said Nic Benson, CEO of MLR. “While this news is unfortunate, and we feel for all individuals associated with the Arrows organization, the health of MLR remains strong and we look forward to exploring options to bring a team back to Canada in the future.”
“It is with heavy hearts we formally announce that the Arrows will not participate in the 2024 MLR season,” said Tim Matthews, General Manager of the Toronto Arrows. “Despite extensive efforts, carrying on following the passing of Bill Webb was simply too great a challenge for the club to overcome. We are working with the League office and contracted players regarding next steps – and in the spirit of the club’s co-founder, we are also working with partners regarding the Arrows Academy and the continued development of Canadian rugby talent. To our fans, friends, partners and the broader rugby community, thank you for your support over the years.”
As MLR works through details of this transition, an announcement about player disbursement processes will be forthcoming, and an update for the 2024 MLR schedule will be provided at a later date. Toronto will be sharing updates on ticket refunds in the coming weeks.
About Major League Rugby:
Major League Rugby is a professional sports league representing the highest level of rugby competition in North America. MLR prides itself in fostering intense, high-stakes competition while bringing together a passionate community built on the values of Respect, Inclusivity, and Tradition. Matches are televised on Fox Sports, among other national and local market platforms, and its OTT Platform, The Rugby Network offers fans the ability to stream select MLR matches live, along with Gallagher Premiership Rugby, Allianz Women’s Premiership Rugby, and other international rugby content. Visit www.Majorleague.Rugby and follow @USMLR on Twitter and Instagram.
Media Contact:
Major League Rugby
Johnathan McGinty, johnathan@trestlecollective.com
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