Wales’ four professional regions, Cardiff, Dragons, Ospreys, and Scarlets, were given a May 8th deadline to sign a new five-year deal, but only Cardiff and Dragons put pen to paper on the fresh terms.
The PRA25 deal includes increased and fixed funding of up to £6.5m – compared to the current £4.5m – from next season, but the two west Wales sides have not committed, with Cardiff’s takeover by the WRU last month among some key issues they want resolved.
The two regions agree that for the long-term benefit of Welsh Rugby that they want to make sure the model going forward is “fair, equitable and sustainable.”
A joint statement read:
“We continue to be in discussion with the WRU on the issue of fairness and hope to have a positive outcome in the near future, but until we have greater clarity, we are currently unable to sign the PRA25.
“We remain committed to working constructively with the WRU to find solutions that support the game across our country and ensure a level playing field for all.
“We fully respect Cardiff and Dragons RFC’s positions and to make decisions based on their respective circumstances.
“During a season-defining weekend for Welsh Rugby in the BKT United Rugby Championship, out of respect for these games, we will be making no further comment at this time and wish our colleagues at Cardiff and Dragons RFC the very best in their games later today.”
[Lead image: Ospreys Rugby]
