The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) has announced plans to axe one of Wales’ four men’s professional rugby teams ahead of the 2028/29 season.
Under a new national structure, only three operating licences will be awarded based on region.
With Cardiff and the Dragons (Newport) securing the capital and eastern spots, respectively, one of the western franchises, the Scarlets (Llanelli) and the Ospreys (Swansea), is set to no longer compete.
The licensing process will begin in December 2026 and is expected to be completed by the end of the 2026/27 season at the latest.
WRU outlines plans
A statement on the WRU website said: “The WRU’s future operating model affirms the plan to establish three men’s professional teams from the 2028/29 season – one based in the capital, one in west Wales and one in east Wales.
“The WRU Board has examined in detail a range of factors when determining the three future licence areas and has confirmed that only incumbent teams will be considered eligible for a licence.
“This means, contingent on the agreement of the final licensing terms, Dragons RFC and Cardiff Rugby would be offered the respective east and capital licences.
“A firm timeline has now been agreed by the WRU Board to determine the licensing framework and the licence award process in accordance with its decision as to geographical allocation of the new licences.
“That process is scheduled to begin in December 2026 and conclude by the end of the 2026/27 season, at the latest.”
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Safeguarding the game
WRU vice-chair John Manders stated: “We have affirmed that the future operating model will involve three professional teams from the start of the 2028/29 season and now have a firm timeline for our next steps.
“We have already begun to put the support structures in place to develop the related player pathways, to create the best environments for our senior players, to provide the right financial support and to develop the facilities around them.
“We are making important progress which will safeguard the future of our game, concentrate resources and give our teams the best chance of achieving success at all levels.”
Avoiding prolonged uncertainty
Marianne Økland, chair of the Professional Rugby Board, added: “There is now a duty on all of us involved in the professional game in Wales to work together to determine a shared future operating model.
“How we progress over the forthcoming months will be critical.
“The aim is to finalise the new licensing model as quickly as possible and then move quickly to confirm future licence arrangements and transition plans.
“This will allow an orderly implementation and avoid prolonged uncertainty for clubs, players, supporters, investors and sponsors.”
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