Hull KR CEO responds to FC takeover with potential for derby glory days return clear

Hull KR CEO Paul Lakin has welcomed news of Hull FC's fresh investment, insisting the development will sharpen up Rovers in the process. The Black and Whites confirmed on Wednesday that a new consortium, consisting of Andrew Thirkill and David Hood OBE, is set to take complete ownership of the club, which will come with significant investment in the process.

The news will see the Black and Whites become one of the richest clubs in Super League, a category Rovers find themselves in after securing investment of their own a few years ago. It also follows a trend, with the likes of Castleford Tigers and Wakefield Trinity recently acquiring new owners, adding much-needed financial support to the game.

Having another club acquire major investment, irrespective of the rivalry attached, is a positive for Lakin, who will be watching their progress with interest.

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"It's good news for the sport and Hull FC," Lakin said. "I think that any new money coming into the sport is much-needed and gives encouragement to other clubs too. We saw that with Castleford, prior to that, Wakefield, and before that, ourselves.

"I'm pleased for Adam (Pearson) first and foremost and I think it will sharpen us up, which is a good thing, and I'm all for it. Clearly, it's been a difficult time for Hull FC for a fair period now, but they have investment so let's see how it goes. But I applaud it."

Lakin stated that Hull FC's cash-boost would not change things at Sewell Group Craven Park, other than providing further motivation for the club to continue on its own upward trajectory.

"I'd like to think we're sharp, but it's a reminder, isn't it? When investment comes into any club it provides fresh impetus and let's be honest about it, we share the same city. Will we change anything? No, but it refocuses the mind."

You have to go back to the eighties to find the last time both clubs were enjoying success at the same time. The start of that era saw silverware attained by both clubs but since then, neither have been at the top together.

Hull FC have won the Challenge Cup three times in the last 40 years and were the dominant force in the city for a long period of time. More recently, the Robins have emerged as the more successful club, while the Black and Whites have endured a particularly difficult period.

Lakin hopes that developments on the other side of the river will be the catalyst for the Hull Derby to become a fixture showcasing two of the best teams the sport has to offer.

"It would be fantastic for the city and the sport," he said. "If both Hull teams were close to the top of the league then I think the derby would be the most watched game in Super League, and therefore, Super League prospers from that.

"Clearly, the rivalry would benefit if there were really competitive derbies. And beyond the investment, they have a new head coach and a not long appointed director of rugby, so there's change going on there. It looks to be getting better for them, so fair play."

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