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WRU plans to reduce rugby teams in Wales to three by 2028

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 29, 2026, 2:27 PM

Last updated Jul 29, 2026

WRU plans to reduce rugby teams in Wales to three by 2028
Summary

The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) has announced a plan to reduce the number of professional rugby teams from four to three by the 2028-29 season. Under this plan, Cardiff and Dragons will be granted licenses for the east and capital regions, leaving Ospreys and Scarlets to compete for the remaining license in the west. The decision-making process will begin in December and conclude by the end of the 2026-27 season, with a potential merger between Ospreys and Scarlets also on the table. This restructuring aims to provide stability and clarity amidst ongoing challenges in Welsh rugby.

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By the Numbers
  • •WRU plans to reduce teams by 2028-29 season.
  • •Cardiff and Dragons set to retain east and capital licenses.
  • •Ospreys and Scarlets will vie for the final west license.
  • •Decision framework process begins in December 2026.
  • •A merger between Ospreys and Scarlets could be considered.
Latest Updates
  • 2:27 PMYahoo Sports — WRU outlines timeline for plan to cut team in west
  • 2:22 PMBBC Sport — WRU outlines timeline for plan to cut team in west
What they're saying
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The Welsh Rugby Union gives details of how they intend to cut a team - with Ospreys and Scarlets set to fight to be the side in south west Wales.

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The Welsh Rugby Union gives details of how they intend to cut a team - with Ospreys and Scarlets set to fight to be the side in south west Wales.

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