Rugby
ESPN staff 8y

Harlequins aim to become 'best club in Europe' with £7.5m bond

Aviva Premiership, European Rugby Challenge Cup

Harlequins has launched its first-ever corporate mini-bond, which it hopes will net the Aviva Premiership club £7.5 million.

The Harlequins FC Bond is aimed at "furthering the club's long-term ambitions of building new audiences at home and abroad" and is subject to a minimum investment of £2,000.

Conor O'Shea's side embarked on a preseason tour of the U.S. last summer and are keen to develop a fan base in north America.

Following defeat to Saracens at Wembley on Saturday, the 2012 Premiership champions find themselves seventh, a point off European Champions Cup qualification.

The London club has watched former neighbours Wasps improve on and off the field since a relocation to Coventry and £35m bond issue, and Quins chief executive David Ellis revealed the club's ultimate ambition was to become the "best rugby club in Europe".

"I am delighted to announce the launch of the Harlequin FC Bond and to offer our supporters the opportunity to be part of the next chapter of Harlequins' story," Ellis said.

"The proceeds will enable us to invest in the club and take us to new levels and to continue to stay ahead of the game as it grows. Our goal is to be the best rugby club in Europe and the best sports club in the world.

"The focus for the club is to continue to invest in the areas that positively impact the business including our players, supporters, partners, community projects and the Harlequins Foundation, enabling us to build on our commercial achievements and contribute to our long term future success, both on and off the field."

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