Dubai Wasps forced to pull out of domestic rugby 2017/18

The Dubai Wasps have been forced to pull out of all domestic UAE rugby. With the loss of major sponsors, spiralling running costs and player numbers, the Wasps have had no option but to fold as one of UAE rugby teams.

Without the guarantee of financial backing and player numbers for the new 2017/18 rugby season, The  Dubai Wasps management let their remaining players know on Thursday night.

Co-Chairman Ben Rothwell confirmed the news on Friday, saying:

“We’ve had to withdraw from the upcoming 2017/18 rugby season, but possibly still feature throughout the season on a social level, hopefully entering a team into the Eden Park 7s, Dubai 7s and the Sharjah 10s.”

It’s been a very sad summer for UAE rugby as a number of local rugby clubs have had to face issues with sponsorships, player numbers and pitch costs.

Founded in 2010, by former Samoa rugby international – Trevor Leota (7th from the right, back row), they hoped to one day make their return to the UAE Premiership, after relegation in 2014. The Wasps featured in the domestic UAE Conference and the UAE Community league competitions over the past couple of years. The effect of the Wasps pulling out means the Conference will run with just nine teams and the Community will run with 10.

Dubai Wasps notable achievements:

• Gulf Conference Winners
• UAE Conference League Winners
• Al Ain Rugby Sevens – Men’s Plate Winners
• Dubai International Rugby Sevens – Gulf Women’s Runners Up