Rob Stewart posted a text graphic reading “This is on you WRU” on Sunday, accusing the Union of driving fans away and leaving the national game “rudderless” as Wales fell to a heavy defeat against a ruthless French side.
A photo taken by Swansea Bay News sports reporter, Richard Bond showed the reality inside the stadium: long stretches of empty red seats, despite the fixture traditionally being one of the hottest tickets of the championship.
“Fans are voting with their feet”
In a strongly worded statement, Stewart said the attendance — just over 57,000 in a 74,500‑seat stadium — was a clear warning to the WRU.
Cllr Rob Stewart, Leader of Swansea Council, said fans were sending a message the Union could no longer ignore:
“Fans are voting with their feet and staying away. Their message to the WRU is clear — we will stay away until you go away.”
He said he felt for the players, describing them as working inside a “broken system run by a Union that is rudderless, tone deaf, and totally out of touch with the fans and the clubs”.
Stewart added that the WRU had brought “chaos, uncertainty and despair” to Welsh rugby and said he would now look at “stepping up actions” to oppose the Union’s regional restructuring plans.
A bruising afternoon on the pitch
On the field, Wales were overwhelmed by a mesmeric French performance. As reported by Swansea Bay News’ Richard Bond, France controlled the game from the opening minutes, cutting through Wales with pace, power and precision.
Wales showed flashes of resistance but were outclassed across the park, leaving supporters facing another painful result in a difficult campaign.
The subdued atmosphere inside the stadium reflected the mood — passionate pockets of support, but a crowd far smaller than the fixture usually commands.
Pressure intensifies on the WRU
The WRU has faced months of criticism over governance, regional funding and its long‑term plan for the professional game. Stewart’s intervention adds political weight to the backlash, with the Swansea leader saying he intends to “stand up for the fans, stand up for the regions, and stand up for the future of rugby in Wales”.
The WRU has not yet responded to his comments.
Completely agree with the Council stance on this however, Mr Stewart, this is surely a case of the pot calling the kettle given the Council and its officers are essentially stonewalling local community sports clubs (I know of at least local football clubs who have had issues trying to work with the Council to improve facilities) on various issues they need support with. Suggest get own house in order before pointing the finger!