Sport: Rugby Country: England Category: Scores & Results

Exeter Chiefs acquired by American owners of Bournemouth

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 30, 2026, 2:07 PM

Last updated Jun 30, 2026

Exeter Chiefs acquired by American owners of Bournemouth

Summary

Exeter Chiefs, an English rugby club, has been purchased by the U.S. investment firm Cannae Holdings through its subsidiary Black Knight Rugby. The deal was announced on June 30, 2026, following a member vote in May to allow the sale. Cannae Holdings also owns Premier League club Bournemouth and several other international teams. The investment comes amid significant American interests in English sports, with growing investments in rugby and stakes in cricket competitions. Exeter was previously the European rugby champion in 2020 and the English champion in 2017 and 2020.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Exeter Chiefs purchased by Black Knight Rugby of Cannae Holdings.
•Deal finalized following member vote in May 2026.
•Cannae Holdings also owns Premier League team Bournemouth.
•Exeter has a history as European champion in 2020.
•U.S. investments in English rugby are now emerging.

Latest Updates

2:07 PMYahoo Sports — American investors dip into English rugby as Exeter Chiefs bought by U.S. owners of Bournemouth

What they're saying

"
English rugby club Exeter Chiefs is now American-owned after being bought by a U.S. investment company whose expanding portfolio already includes Premier League team Bournemouth. Black Knight Rugby, a new subsidiary of Cannae Holdings, has completed the 100% purchase of the Chiefs, Exeter announced Tuesday.
— Yahoo Sportsby STEVE DOUGLAS

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