Summary
The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) plans to reduce its four professional rugby teams to three by 2028. For now, the WRU has decided to keep all four teams after consultations and discussions with various stakeholders. The decision includes plans for financial restructuring and possibly changing team branding.
Key Facts
- The WRU plans to have only three professional rugby teams by 2028.
- Currently, there are four teams: Cardiff, Dragons, Ospreys, and Scarlets.
- The WRU considered cutting one or two teams but decided to keep four teams for now after consultations.
- There was significant opposition to reducing the number of teams, including from players and team owners.
- The United Rugby Championship, which includes Welsh teams, was concerned about losing a Welsh team from its 16-team competition.
- The WRU conducted a public survey with over 7,000 responses to gather input on the decision.
- The final decision involves financial restructuring and possibly changing team branding and funding distribution.
