New WRU chair Faulkner plans to review region cut

BBC Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 26, 2026, 8:00 AM

Last updated Oct 26, 2026

New WRU chair Faulkner plans to review region cut

Summary

Lyndon Faulkner, set to officially assume the role of Welsh Rugby Union chairman next month, intends to review the controversial plan to reduce the number of professional teams in Wales. He expressed surprise at the WRU’s £18 million loss and emphasized the need to address the financial challenges facing the organization. Faulkner's approach includes assessing all current strategies, especially regarding potential cuts to professional rugby regions, as he seeks to understand the trust issues among stakeholders. He aims for a thorough evaluation to expedite decisions related to the regional shake-up while acknowledging each region's historical significance.

Source Links

BBC Sport

Key Details

•Faulkner to review plan to cut a region from four to three by 2028.
•He was surprised by the WRU's recent £18 million financial loss.
•Faulkner aims to challenge existing strategies and improve financial conditions.
•He expresses empathy for concerns from affected regions, Ospreys and Scarlets.
•Faulkner officially begins his role in November.

Latest Updates

8:00 AMBBC Sport — 'I'm no yes man' - new WRU chair to review region cut

What they're saying

"
Lyndon Faulkner is not in his role yet but is already intent on getting to grips with both the WRU's finances and plans to cut a region.
— BBC Sport

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