Talks over the structure of a future second tier are continuing, with current Championship clubs keen on a meritocratic system that allows for promotion and relegation.

Premiership sides Worcester, Wasps and London Irish all went bust last year, along with Championship champions Jersey Reds.

Championship sides are concerned over the distribution of funding – they claim the current proposals for the 2025 season will result in second-tier clubs sharing £4m in comparison to £33m between the 10 Premiership sides.

They have continued to struggle for funding since the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, with central RFU payments falling from £645,000 per club in 2019 to £150,000.

Earlier this year Cornish Pirates said they were not able to bring in new investment due to the ongoing uncertainty over the future of the second tier.

A final decision on the make-up of a new second tier will be made by the RFU council no later than 1 August 2024, along with the rules on how teams will be accepted into the new league.

“The objective is to create a second tier that supports the English system by developing young English talent, whilst supporting the clubs to become financially sustainable by growing local audiences and increasing the value in the league,” the RFU said.

“In April 2024, Council approved the principles of a new governance structure, the Minimum Operating Standards, and the principle of Tier Two comprising 14 clubs from 2025-26.”