London Irish is setting its sights on a return to professional rugby as early as next season following a takeover by new owner and chairman Steve Daniels. His company, Gamechanger Investments, has acquired the club's name and brand from Kyle Jordan, son of the late Eddie Jordan, and Daniel McKeown, who had been instrumental in attempts to revive the club after its closure in 2023.

This takeover represents a renewed effort to reintegrate the Exiles into the professional landscape, with chief executive Jamie Balls expressing optimism about securing a spot in the Championship, English rugby's second tier, at the earliest opportunity.

• Balls stated, "If next season were an opportunity and they would allow us to do so, we would like to go then. If it's not, then we'll wait another year."

Previously, the club had contemplated joining the United Rugby Championship, involving teams from Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Italy, and South Africa, but faced resistance.

The Championship is now viewed as a more feasible starting point, allowing for a rebuild before future aspirations. Daniels emphasized the significance of London Irish, stating, "We want to get the club back where it belongs - on the pitch and competing again."

Despite the positive developments, challenges remain, notably regarding the club's home ground. Previously, London Irish played at Brentford's Gtech Community Stadium from 2020 to 2023 and at Reading's Select Car Leasing Stadium prior. The new owners are exploring various stadium options, including the potential return to Hazelwood, the club's former training base.

Balls remarked on the site's potential, mentioning ongoing negotiations but clarified that London Irish does not currently own Hazelwood. The club is committed to establishing a sustainable and competitive future, aiming to restore its legacy in rugby.