The consultation, which will run through August and September, involves the four current regional sides—Scarlets, Ospreys, Cardiff Rugby and Dragons—as well as players, member clubs and other stakeholders. It follows what the WRU describes as the worst season in the history of the senior men’s game, with Wales losing 18 consecutive matches that only ended on Saturday with a 31-22 victory in the second Test against Japan in Kobe.
In a statement, the WRU said the current model of four equally funded regional clubs is “not delivering consistent success on the field and isn’t currently financially sustainable given the likely investment required.” The Union is now considering a “more radical strategy” to reform the entire professional structure, aiming to maximise investment and improve competitiveness.
“The current rugby system in Wales, which includes national teams, professional clubs, community clubs, academies, universities and schools isn’t delivering consistent success on the field and isn’t currently financially sustainable given the likely investment required, even with the recent actions taken to increase financial resources,” the WRU said.
“The WRU is therefore considering a more radical strategy focused on maximising investment and reforming the whole structure of professional rugby in Wales, amongst other options.”
Among the proposals under consultation are:
- A reduction to three or two regional men’s teams
- Significant investment in player development and elite pathways
- A national centre for developing coaches and support staff
- Expanded funding for the semi-professional Super Rygbi Cymru competition
- A new leadership and decision-making model for the professional game
- Aligning men’s and women’s teams under shared professional club structures
- A revised funding model to ensure long-term sustainability and investment potential
The WRU say the changes are part of a broader effort to strengthen Welsh rugby at all levels—from academies and community clubs to national teams. The current Professional Rugby Agreement (PRA), which underpins the regional game, is set to expire in June 2027. A new five-year deal has been signed by Cardiff and Dragons, but not by Ospreys or Scarlets, leaving the future of all four sides under scrutiny.
The Union has committed to a “comprehensive and transparent” consultation process, with final decisions expected in October following WRU Board approval. The outcome could reshape the domestic rugby landscape in Wales for decades to come.
