Beyoncé and K-pop Absent Therefore Argentina v South Africa Needs to Increase Rugby Football Union's Bank Balance

One quick look regarding the RFU stadium's scheduled activities and regrettably, again no Beyoncé. No major musical events for the union's leadership for now. Actually, the union's ambition to host further live performances and thus fund the stadium's £660 million redevelopment has faced a bit of a delay.

A council paper, obtained by the Guardian, notes: “Due to the unpredictability concerning the capability of public transport to accommodate the predicted increase in travelers, there exist major worries concerning the extra pressure put on the road and rail systems by spectators and whether this need can be properly addressed. This is likely to result in a serious inconvenience for the community.”

It is far from insurmountable but few would disagree seasoned rugby fans who think otherwise.

In parallel, a lengthy planning discussion recently to consider the stadium's operational proposal showed that officials received 192 complaints, 13 supportive comments. A ruling is expected next week but the planning verdict will be conclusive in a procedure that will continue into 2026.

In the meantime, the union’s predicament was perfectly illustrated following an intended summer performance was quickly moved to a much smaller yet more contemporary O₂ arena.

Evidently the union is unable to draw the level of performers it requires to optimally employ its large capacity ground due to existing infrastructure and limitations.

Relocating Elsewhere Seems Somewhat Unlikely

Yet the organization's commitment to optimize its primary resource brings us nicely on to this weekend's match at Twickenham.

It is set to be a dramatic conclusion to the most exciting rugby competition in years, upwards of 70,000 are expected and it is unquestionably a profitable venture.

The fixture is managed by a specialist events company and Steve Berrick, with extensive background organizing comparable events with the Barbarians at Twickenham and states, “as with most things it's typically driven by commercial reasons. It's reasonable to state all parties involved are happy with the deal they've agreed.”

Argentina as the “Home” Side

Argentina acts as the host team – just as they were in the match with Australia in 2016 – and it was their decision to approach the RFU.

They will generate significantly higher income versus staging the game took place in Argentina, which provides a particularly useful revenue stream due to the lack of the annual tournament in 2026 and logistically it makes sense.

Travel from last weekend’s match in South Africa is less demanding with only one exception of their main squad this weekend are based in England or France.

The Springboks' Position

South Africa plays as the opponent, essentially participating, yet this marks the third occasion during a three-year period they compete in a game in London where England isn't playing.

The union, meanwhile, obtains a substantial rental payment including revenue sources such as food and beverage earnings which should match in the same ballpark an England international considering the large attendance that is expected.

As Sweeney has admitted, Twickenham is the RFU’s “cash cow”.

Is it surprising management is progressively permitting other teams utilize their facilities if they are willing to pay?

South Africa's Cooperation

The Springboks might just be happy to take part yet it's not accidental this game is viewed as most suitable to stage at the stadium.

As one insider put it recently, South Africa essentially straddle hemispheres currently through their domestic teams involved in cross-hemisphere tournaments.

The South African diaspora in the UK ensures strong attendance while the scheduling is convenient for supporters back home.

They come to Twickenham safe in the knowledge that it won't hurt to their ambitions to enhance their profile on a global scale, particularly if they secure victory at Twickenham impressively.

Upcoming Games and International Plans

They will also host New Zealand for an extensive competition in the coming year, which will become a recurring bilateral arrangement, with another neutral venue match is under discussion, possibly on the continent, potentially returning to Twickenham.

The Springboks may simply be the visiting team this weekend but it's significant when Bongi Mbonambi will match Tom Curry's record of Twickenham wins in recent seasons if the Springboks are victorious against Argentina.

Furthermore, the organization, is only too happy to have them - recent rows like the negative consequences of the World Cup match and public statements by the coach about officiating decisions evidently set aside.

The Stadium's Growing Role

Indeed, increasingly it feels the venue is being marketed as the northern hemisphere’s go-to neutral venue.

According to the organizer, ‘in England and the UK we welcome overseas sports. We’ve got NFL matches here, international soccer teams visit, there’s baseball, fans are passionate about athletics”.

It doesn't help develop growing regions – one wouldn't attempt to develop cricket fans by hosting a fixture at the traditional venue – but periodic matches at the stadium makes increasing sense.

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