Summary
The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) has announced that Y11 Sport and Media, the owners of the Ospreys rugby team, are the preferred choice to buy Cardiff Rugby. If the deal goes through, Y11 would own both the Ospreys and Cardiff teams, but they will continue to operate as separate entities. There are concerns about the Ospreys' future as a professional team beyond the 2026-27 season.
Key Facts
- The WRU chose Y11 Sport and Media to buy Cardiff Rugby.
- Y11 already owns the Ospreys rugby team.
- Both teams will remain separate entities if the deal is successful.
- Ospreys are guaranteed to play in the United Rugby Championship and European competitions until at least 2027.
- There is no guarantee that Ospreys will continue as a professional team after the 2026-27 season.
- The WRU may reduce its four men's professional teams to three.
- Cardiff, Dragons, and Scarlets may continue as the three main Welsh teams.
- The status of Ospreys' new home, St Helen's ground in Swansea, is uncertain, and legal action may be considered.
