Overview
- The WRU will move from four regions to three licensed men's clubs, with teams designated for Cardiff, east Wales and west Wales, and two elite women's sides added.
- All existing player deals and United Rugby Championship obligations will be honoured, with Ospreys and Scarlets contracted to June 2027 and Cardiff and Dragons to 2028.
- Each future men's club is set for equal squad funding starting at £6.4 million per year, rising to £7.8 million, as part of a restructuring aimed at improving competitiveness and sustainability.
- The union has pledged £40 million over five years for coaching, academies and player pathways, including a men's national academy and expanded women's development structures.
- If stakeholders cannot agree on the transition, the WRU says it will run a transparent tender for the three licences, and MPs will question union leaders on the plans in January.