The fallout continues at the Warriors rugby league club, with co-owner Sir Owen Glenn continuing his spat with other co-owner Eric Watson and the franchise's board.
Sir Owen Glenn. Photo: RNZ
Sir Owen says he wants to cut ties with the New Zealand club following the departure of coach Matt Elliot.
On Wednesday, the Warriors issued a statement saying Sir Owen knew that Mr Elliott was leaving and went with the full knowledge and support of the board, including him.
But on Thursday, Sir Owen stated categorically that he was not consulted on the axing and described the situation as completely unacceptable.
Sir Owen said he wanted to acquire full ownership of the Auckland-based club from Eric Watson, but the price was too high. He said he now wants to sell 50 perent stake, valued at over $6 million, back to Mr Watson but negotiations have ceased.
Sir Owen said the accusation that he did not want to be fully involved in the club is false. But Warriors board chairman Bill Wavish said he has an email from Sir Owen saying he didn't want to be contacted directly about the day-to-day running of the franchise.
Mr Wavish believes the club could be seriously damaged if Sir Owen retains his stake.
Rugby League ambassador Sir Peter Leitch reluctantly appeared on Television New Zealand's Breakfast programme on Thursday and said Sir Owen Glenn is dragging the club's name through the mud. Sir Peter said he is sickened by what is happening to the club.
