Welsh rugby to axe professional team with two clubs in fight for survival
- The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) has confirmed it will reduce the number of men’s professional teams from four to three, effective from the 2028-29 season.
- This decision means that Scarlets and Ospreys, both currently located in the west, will compete for a single remaining licence, with one team ultimately being cut.
- Cardiff and Dragons RFC have been offered secure licences for the capital and east regions respectively, ensuring their continued professional status.
- The WRU’s restructuring aims to establish one professional team in the capital, one in the west, and one in the east, following a detailed review of various factors.
- The licensing framework and the award process for the remaining western spot will begin in December 2026 and is scheduled to conclude by the end of the 2026-27 season, aiming for an orderly implementation.
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