The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) is considering major changes to the structure of professional rugby in Wales, with the possibility of reducing the current four regional teams to just three or even two by the 2027-28 season. This move is part of a broader review aiming to address what the Union describes as a failing and financially unsustainable system.
Currently, Wales is represented by four professional teams: Cardiff, Dragons, Ospreys, and Scarlets. These teams have competed in domestic and international competitions for years, but the WRU now believes a more radical approach is required to secure long-term success and stability. A formal consultation process has been launched involving the Professional Rugby Board, players, and member clubs, with a new strategy expected by October.
The existing Professional Rugby Agreement (PRA), which governs the funding and structure of the professional game in Wales, is due to expire in 2027. Although a new five-year deal was agreed in principle earlier this year, it has not been signed by all parties. While Cardiff and Dragons have committed to the new PRA, Ospreys and Scarlets have held off, citing unresolved issues with the WRU.
Despite the uncertainty, all four teams are expected to continue in their current form until at least June 2027. However, their futures remain in question as the consultation explores different options, including the possibility of mergers or disbandment. One affected development is Ospreys’ planned move to a newly renovated stadium in Swansea, which now faces further scrutiny.
The WRU says the restructure is necessary to ensure that Wales can field competitive teams at the top level of professional rugby. The national team’s recent struggles—highlighted by a run of 18 consecutive defeats before a recent win over Japan—have added urgency to the reform. The Union argues that the entire rugby system in the country, from grassroots to elite level, is failing to deliver on or off the pitch.
Under the proposed changes, focus would shift to improving financial sustainability and investing in development pathways. This includes strengthening the semi-professional Super Rygbi Cymru and the women’s Celtic Challenge, boosting support for academies and player development programs, and creating a national centre for elite performance.
Tensions have grown between the WRU and the western regions, particularly Ospreys and Scarlets, over the direction of professional rugby. The relationship became more strained when Cardiff, having gone into temporary administration, was taken over by the WRU in a deal that absorbed £9 million of the club’s debt. This raised concerns among other regions over fairness and transparency in the restructuring process.
The consultation aims to bring an end to 18 months of gridlock and reset the course for Welsh professional rugby. While the final outcome remains uncertain, the WRU appears determined to make sweeping changes to secure a more competitive and financially viable future for the sport in Wales.
