Australian rugby is facing a major drama after broadcast partner Fox Sports reportedly decided to end its 25-year partnership with the sport.
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News Corp Australia, majority owner of Fox Sports Australia, reported that after months of negotiations talks came to an end on Wednesday and a deal will not be renewed beyond the end of this year.
The struggling code will potentially look at a deal with Optus, News Corp Australia reported.
Fox Sports has had deals with rugby in Australia dating back to 1996, when the game turned professional.
The current television deal, signed in 2015 was worth $285 million, giving RA $57 million a year.
Fox Sports and Network Ten are the current domestic broadcasters of rugby in Australia, with Fox Sports showing all Super Rugby games and both screening Wallabies Test matches.
"We are preparing to take the package to market early this month," an RA spokesperson told News Corp Australia.
Rugby in Australia has had a difficult time in recent years with declining interest in Super Rugby, highlighted by lower crowds and television viewing numbers.
RA also made an undisclosed settlement, thought to be several million dollars, to former star player Israel Folau after he was sacked for social media posts ostracising homosexuals.
Super Rugby clubs rely heavily on broadcast revenue to remain viable and any downturn in funds could cripple their operations.
