Cornish Pirates secure 'landmark' US investment

Cornish Pirates secure 'landmark' US investmentImage source, Brian TempestImage caption, Cornish Pirates beat third-placed Coventry in their last league outingByBrent PilnickBBC Sport EnglandPublished1 hour ago4 CommentsBySophie HurcomBBC Sport EnglandChamp club Cornish Pirates have announced new "landmark" investment from American firm Stonewood Capital Management.The deal is backed by J. Kenneth Moritz and John H. Tippins of the Pittsburgh-based group, with both joining the club's board of directors.The news comes less than a week after businessman Richard Wastnage also became a member of the board, having provided new financial investment.The trio join the consortium of local businessmen who took over the Penzance-based club in 2025."This is a hugely significant moment for Cornish Pirates," said Pirates chief executive officer Sally Pettipher. "To attract investment from experienced US investors of this calibre is a powerful endorsement of our strategy, our people and our long-term vision to build real value, both financial and social."Pirates are seventh in the Champ table and go into their final game of the season on Saturday, away at Hartpury, still in with a chance of making the play-offs.Cornish Pirates stay in play-off hunt with Coventry winPublished4 days agoThe 2031 Rugby World Cup is due to be held in the United States and Pittsburgh is among the cities bidding to host the event.Moritz, president of Stonewood Capital, said they saw a "compelling opportunity" in Cornish Pirates."A club with a proud history, a passionate community and a clear strategic plan for growth," he said."Rugby is entering an exciting global phase, and we believe this investment places us at the heart of that journey."Can Cornwall realise top-flight potential? - AnalysisCornwall has always been one of rugby union's hotbeds, but the county has never had a top-flight team.The Pirates have come closest - ma...