WRU set to cut number of regions from four to just two
The union is drawing up plans to cut the number of professional sides in Wales in half
Last updated 20th Aug 2025
The Welsh Rugby Union reportedly wants to cut the number of professional teams in Wales from four to just two.
The WRU says the move is needed to transform the struggling game.
It means Cardiff, Dragons, Ospreys and Scarlets could be reduced to just two regions – although it is not yet clear which will survive.
The WRU admitted in July that the current set-up was failing and unsustainable – and said it was working on a more radical plan.
It followed Wales’ men’s team losing a record eighteen matches in a row and dropping to twelfth in the world rankings, while the four regions continued to struggle in the URC and Europe.
Talks over a new deal had dragged on for months – before a breakthrough came in February with a new Professional Rugby Agreement.
But despite being signed by Dragons and Cardiff in April – Ospreys and Scarlets refused.
It now means more upheaval, with Ospreys planning to move into a revamped stadium in Swansea – while Scarlets have brought in new investors.
Dragons say professional rugby must continue in Gwent – and Cardiff are currently under WRU ownership.
It remains unclear if the two future sides being mooted will be new entities or existing teams.
Reports suggest there could be 50 players per squad – each with a budget of around £7.8m.
A six-week consultation will now begin before a final decision is made in October.