Welsh Rugby Union confirms Scarlets or Ospreys to be cut
Summary
The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) plans to reduce the number of men's professional rugby teams from four to three by the 2028-29 season. Cardiff Rugby and Dragons will keep their places, while the Scarlets and Ospreys must compete for the single remaining spot in southwest Wales or consider merging.Key Facts
- WRU will cut Welsh men's professional rugby teams from four to three by 2028-29.
- Cardiff Rugby (owned by WRU) and Dragons (independently backed) will receive licences for two of the three teams.
- Scarlets and Ospreys must compete for the third and final licence spot representing southwest Wales.
- A merger between Scarlets and Ospreys is a possible but controversial option.
- Final licensing decisions will be made between December and the end of the 2026-27 season.
- WRU aims to handle the process carefully to avoid uncertainty for players, clubs, and fans.
- A previous merger attempt between Scarlets and Ospreys nearly happened in 2019.
- WRU is working on support structures like player development and financial backing to help the teams succeed under the new system.
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