The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) has reaffirmed its strategy to reduce professional teams from four to three by 2028, planning to award licences to Cardiff, a union‑owned entity, and the Dragons, which operates under private backing.
This proposal has created uncertainty for the Scarlets and Ospreys, as the western licence will be granted either to the Llanelli‑based team or its Swansea counterpart.
WRU officials announced that the framework for the final decision will commence in December and be finalized before the conclusion of the 2026‑27 season.
Scarlets managing director Jon Daniels maintains that no merger with the Ospreys is under consideration and has called for increased transparency from the WRU.
In response, the Ospreys have publicly contested the proposal, asserting that maintaining four professional sides is preferable and criticizing the WRU’s plan to reduce a team.
The search for a successor to Collier‑Keywood remains ongoing, with the WRU indicating that the new independent chair must endorse the three‑team structure.
Davies added that the Welsh economy and rugby are under strain, urging stakeholders — including former players, clubs, and supporters — to voice their concerns and demand change.
He warned that failure to act now could exacerbate the situation, potentially leaving Wales in a considerably worse position within five to ten years.
He concluded by calling for collective action to bring about change.
Davies asserted that Welsh rugby has become disconnected from its populace.
He stated that restoring this connection is his foremost priority.
He argued that the Welsh people must decide whether rugby union should remain a core element of their national identity, culture, and heritage.
He emphasized that the WRU’s purpose is to deliver this vision to the Welsh public.
He outlined the goal of establishing a widespread rugby presence, from villages to towns, to nurture talent that can progress through regional and national pathways.
He added that leveraging Wales’ distinctive passion and talent is essential for a sustainable future.
This statement follows remarks by Hayley Parsons, a former Cardiff board member and Welsh businesswoman, who called for the WRU’s resignation.
Rob Regan, formerly chief operating officer of Principality Building Society, has offered to join an interim board and help appoint a permanent successor.