WELSH RUGBY UNION TO CUT PROFESSIONAL TEAMS TO THREE BY 2028

The Welsh Rugby Union has confirmed plans to reduce its men's professional rugby teams from four to three by the 2028-29 season. Cardiff Rugby and Dragons have been offered licences to operate as the capital and east Wales sides respectively, according to the governing body. Ospreys and Scarlets, based in Swansea and Llanelli, will compete for the single remaining licence in west Wales, with a merger between the two teams also identified as a possibility.

The WRU stated that only incumbent teams are eligible for licences under the proposed framework. The decision-making process will begin in December and conclude before the end of the 2026-27 season, according to the governing body. The WRU plans to convene the leadership of all four professional teams and other stakeholders after Wales' Nations Championship matches in November to discuss financial terms and assess interest in the new licence conditions. Marianne Okland, chair of the Professional Rugby Board, stated the timeline aims to provide stability whilst acknowledging "considerable challenges ahead".

The restructuring will leave two teams competing for one licence spot, creating uncertainty for players, supporters, investors and sponsors at both Ospreys and Scarlets. The WRU acknowledged this uncertainty will persist until a final decision on the west licence is made. The governing body stated it is committed to progressing in a collaborative manner to reach an orderly implementation of the new structure.