Why would a universally acclaimed sporting organisation want to buy a beleaguered rugby club in the Northeast of England? The Falcons are far from glamorous.
The immediate impact was to sack the Director of Rugby, Steve Diamond. Not unexpected, and it may have contributed to Newcastle losing their first three games with a 30+ points deficit in each.
Is there a hidden agenda?
Whatever. I think it is implausible that we will see Max Verstappen walking the streets of Newcastle.
Does Red Bull want to become part of Mike Tindall’s R360 initiative? He is looking for eight franchises. Could they be one?
Tindall’s project suffered a further setback when South Africa put all its international players on notice that they will be going flat out to become the first nation to win three consecutive World Cups. None will sign for R360.
Pole position
Meanwhile, round three of the Gallagher Premiership concluded with current champions Bath firmly ensconced in pole position at the top with a 100% record of three wins out of three. Northampton look the most likely challengers with a good mix of youth and experience in their squad.
Harlequins beat Saracens at the Stoop in a reversal of form. Owen Farrell remains the commentator favourite even when he makes mistakes. Some may give up on Rugby Union if he makes the England squad.
To date, the most concerning aspect of the games played is the number of injuries. Most are long-term, which is more concerning. The long-running concussion saga haunts the game with a civil action of over 1,000 ex-players looming. Fewer schools are playing rugby, and club mini and junior sections report fewer registrations. Action please, RFU.
Gallagher Premiership Round 3 Results:
Sale 57 vs Newcastle 5
Bath 38 vs Gloucester 17
Northampton 32 vs Leicester 26
Bristol 18 vs Exeter 14.
Harlequins 20 vs Saracens 14.
The Global Rugby Coach, Mike Penistone, is a globally renowned professional rugby coach based in Phuket who is also an ambassador for the Asia Center Foundation, a charity for disadvantaged children. For more information visit: www.rugbycoachingconsultancy.com.