In response to WRU statement 18 May 2025 regarding PRA 2025 and notice served
The Ospreys and Scarlets are concerned and disappointed to read the WRU’s statement today (18 May 2025) outlining a sudden change in its strategy of four equally-funded professional clubs in Wales.
This U-turn has now created more destabilising and debilitating uncertainty in our game, with pertinent questions being asked by stakeholders across our clubs and within our communities regarding the future framework and landscape for professional rugby in Wales.
The very foundations that both the ‘One Wales’ strategy and new PRA (2025) are based upon have now changed dramatically and without full consultation. This goes back on recent commitments made to the clubs and to Welsh rugby fans.
The future framework and landscape for professional rugby in Wales matters to us all.
We would urge the WRU to provide more clarity and detail on the decision, the ‘opportunity’ that it wishes to seize and to inform us what the process will be for a new system and model for Welsh Rugby and how they intend to deliver it.
We need a unifying position and coherent strategy that allows us to continue to compete and grow as professional clubs in Wales.
As professional clubs, we share the same passion, focus and hope for a better and more sustainable future for our game in Wales, which has been impacted significantly in recent years.
We thank all those connected with our two clubs including players and staff, supporters, partners, sponsors and our wider rugby communities for their continued support and patience while we seek to find a sustainable and equitable solution for the future.
We are key contributors to the success of Welsh rugby and we remain committed to working constructively and collaboratively with the WRU to find solutions that support the game across our country and ensure a level playing field for all.