Welsh four regions system ‘unsustainable’ as struggling union opens talks aimed at radical change

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Japans Shogo Nakano is tackled by Wales Taine Plumtree (right) in the international rugby union Test match at the Noevir Stadium in Kobe on July 12, 2025.

PHOTO: AFP

The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) said on July 14 its current system with four regional clubs was “financially unsustainable” as it announced formal talks aiming to restructure the domestic professional game by the 2027-28 season.

It cited a lack of on-field success as the primary reason behind it considering a “radical strategy” to improve the sport, saying the decision was taken after 18 months of extensive work, including consultation with the clubs and players.

“The WRU board has already publicly confirmed it does not see the system continuing with the current model of four equally funded regional clubs in the senior men’s game,” the WRU said in a statement.

The current rugby system in Wales, which includes national teams, professional clubs, community clubs, academies, universities and schools isnt delivering consistent success on the field and isnt currently financially sustainable given the likely investment required.

Four professional clubs – Cardiff Rugby, Scarlets, Ospreys and Dragons – represent Wales in the United Rugby Championship. No Welsh side have won the competition since 2016-17.

Cardiff, the largest of the four, entered administration in April after owners Helford Capital failed to meet its funding obligations.

The Wales national team ended an 18-match losing streak with a victory over Japan on July 12, but remain outside the top 10 in the world rankings after high-margin