Exeter Chiefs Target July Takeover Completion as Black Knight Group Nears Club Purchase

Exeter Chiefs chief executive Tony Rowe says he is hopeful the club’s proposed takeover by Black Knight Football Club can be completed before the start of July.

The investment group, which also owns AFC Bournemouth, is currently in advanced negotiations to acquire the Premiership Rugby club. Exeter members voted in favour of the takeover proposal last month, with the final details of the agreement now being completed.

Rowe said he expects the transaction to be finalised before the end of June, allowing the club to begin the next phase of its development under new ownership from 1 July.

The potential takeover comes during a positive period on the field for Exeter, who secured a return to the Premiership play-offs for the first time in five years after defeating Saracens in their final regular-season fixture.

The achievement marks a significant turnaround for director of rugby Rob Baxter and his squad after the club finished second from bottom in the previous campaign with only four league victories.

According to Rowe, Black Knight has made it clear that it does not intend to alter the club’s rugby operations, expressing confidence in the existing leadership team and playing structure as Exeter continue their pursuit of a third English title.

Rowe, whose investment and business success played a key role in Exeter’s rise from the lower leagues to domestic and European honours, believes the introduction of new ownership will help secure the club’s long-term future.

He pointed to Black Knight’s investment in AFC Bournemouth as evidence of the group’s commitment to sustainable growth, highlighting the progress made by the Premier League club since the company became involved.

Looking ahead, Rowe said additional investment will be vital as English rugby prepares for potential structural changes, including discussions around a franchise-based Premiership model later this decade.

He added that further funding could support improvements at Sandy Park and help Exeter remain competitive both on and off the field, while positioning the club for future growth within an evolving professional rugby landscape.