US EditionWRU Defends Proposal to Halve Number of Pro Teams
The Welsh Rugby Union plans a major restructuring with two professional teams, men's and women's squads, a national academy, and a campus to enhance performance and sustainability.
- On August 20, 2025, the Welsh Rugby Union proposed reducing Wales' professional men’s teams from four to two in a 90-page plan.
- This proposal followed Cardiff entering administration in May and aimed to address declining fan numbers and competitive challenges.
- The plan includes creating a national campus for teams and academies, scrapping club academies, and setting squads of 50 players with £7.8m budgets each.
- WRU chairman Richard Collier-Keywood said legal challenges exist, while chief executive Abi Tierney asked stakeholders to improve the proposals for Welsh rugby's future.
- A six-week consultation period will begin this week involving clubs, supporters, and players, after which the WRU will determine the final plan with the goal of introducing changes by the 2027/28 season.
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WRU defends proposal to halve number of pro teams
The Welsh Rugby Union has recognised the "hurt and anger" caused by their proposal to reduce the number of professional men's sides in Wales from four to two, but insisted maintaining the status quo is not the "right thing" to do.
·Ireland
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Welsh Rugby Union Proposes Cutting Domestic Teams from Four to Two to Transform National Game in Wales - TDPel Media
Wales’ national rugby scene could be on the brink of its biggest shake-up in decades. The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) has unveiled a radical proposal aimed at turning around the fortunes of the country’s elite rugby system, sparking intense debate and strong reactions from fans, players, and stakeholders alike. WRU Admits Change Is Needed At a press conference at Principality Stadium on Wednesday, the WRU made a blunt admission: “It’s clear the Wels…
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Leaning Left3Leaning Right1Center1Last UpdatedBias Distribution60% Left
Bias Distribution
- 60% of the sources lean Left
60% Left
L 60%
C 20%
R 20%
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