Lions refute ‘leak’ claims
Lions refute ‘leak’ claims
The Golden Lions Rugby Union is looking forward with renewed vigour and excitement to the kick off of the 2011 Absa Currie Cup tournament on July 15, said Union president Kevin de Klerk on Friday. Mr De Klerk dismissed allegations, contained in a letter leaked to media, that the Union was unable to meet its current financial commitments.
“The document is a letter from Robert Gumede to me which reflects the opinions of one party,” said Mr De Klerk. “We obviously do not share the views of the author. It was a confidential letter to me that was leaked to the media and I am of the firm opinion that the correct forum for these matters to be addressed is not in public.
“The letter contains untested claims and I can assure our supporters that the Golden Lions Rugby Union does not face bankruptcy – the very idea is news to us.
“Our intentions have always been honourable in engaging with an equity partner and my objectives and views around identifying a BEE partner are well documented. We accepted an approach by Guma as a result of this. We will continue to act in an honourable way by not discussing commercially confidential matters in public.”
“Suffice to say, we are already considering an offer from an alternative equity partner and can assure our supporters that the Lions’ 120-year legacy is not being compromised. The union has had its ups and downs over the years but I am confident that we can look forward to an outstanding Absa Curie Cup season and many more years of providing our fans and stakeholders with the brand of Lions rugby that they have come to enjoy.”
Mr De Klerk said the Union would make no further comment on the claims or any new allegations. “We have a rugby business to run and a trophy to win and that is where we are now able to focus our energies,” he said.
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