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yesterday

WRU Puts Two-Team Overhaul to Consultation, Setting Up October Decision

Union leaders present consolidation as the only realistic path to a competitive, sustainable system.

Image
@WelshRugbyUnion/X
Cardiff and Ospreys in action — two of the four regional sides, along with Dragons and Scarlets that were created in 2003
Hawkins, who moved from Exeter Chiefs to Scarlets in March, says the proposals would result in top players moving to England

Overview

  • A six-week consultation opens on 1 September, with a recommendation due to the board in mid-October and a final decision expected by the end of October.
  • The preferred option reduces four regions to two entities, each operating men’s and women’s teams under WRU‑funded licences, with locations yet to be determined.
  • Plans outline men’s squads of about 50 players with £7.8m per-team budgets, women’s squads of about 40, and a move toward a centralized national training campus.
  • Regions and figures have voiced opposition, with Dragons insisting elite rugby must remain in Gwent, Scarlets announcing new investment from House of Luxury, and Ospreys pursuing a St Helen’s stadium redevelopment.
  • WRU leaders acknowledge potential legal challenges as Cardiff remains under union ownership after an April takeover, and any reduction could affect URC team numbers, with reports of expansion options being explored.