The future of Welsh rugby – MPs question WRU and supporter groups
On Wednesday 21 January, the Welsh Affairs Committee will examine the future of Welsh Rugby, including the potential impact of the Welsh Rugby Union’s (WRU) proposal to reduce the number of professional teams from four to three.
Meeting details
The Committee will first question the WRU’s Chief Executive, Abi Tierney, and Chair, Richard Collier-Keywood, on the impact of the restructuring, whether it will achieve the WRU’s objectives, and how the loss of a professional side would affect support for the game in Wales.
MPs may also raise questions about how changes to the elite game will trickle through to community and grassroots rugby and will explore how successful the WRU has been in promoting participation amongst women and girls.
In the second panel, MPs will hear from supporters of Cardiff Rugby, Dragons RFC, Ospreys, and Scarlets Rugby on how the proposed changes could affect fans, wider communities, and the regional rugby systems they support and represent.
In October 2025, the WRU Board first announced the plans to restructure the number of professional teams, directly contract players and coaches, and create a national academy to centralise the promotion of young players into elite rugby. The WRU said its reforms will help ensure financial stability and improve sporting performance.