Prem and RFU focus on English clubs amid Welsh interest

Summarised from 3 outlets · Updated 28 Oct, 20:20 · Archive

Prem Rugby and the RFU have restated their commitment to expanding the top flight with English clubs following reports of Welsh interest.

Prem Rugby and the Rugby Football Union have restated their commitment to expanding the English top flight, following media reports that the Welsh Rugby Union was in advanced discussions about Welsh clubs joining the competition. The Independent understands that reports of advanced negotiations are wide of the mark, although talks between the WRU and Prem executives have taken place.

The Prem currently contains ten teams and is targeting expansion to twelve by the 2029-30 season. Any prospective clubs, whether English or Welsh, must meet stringent entry criteria established by the Men's Professional Rugby Board. Joining would cost around £23.5m, covering the P-share that secures a percentage of central income and voting rights, plus funding for a Premiership Women's Rugby programme. Applicants must also spend at least a year in the Championship before entry.

Any addition of Welsh clubs would require approval from the RFU, as it would make the Premiership a cross-border competition. "Resources are currently focused on supporting English clubs throughout the pyramid who aspire to join the league," Prem Rugby and the RFU said in a joint statement. The Prem has established a league office to develop prospective clubs interested in expansion.

How it is being reported

• Prem prioritising English expansion amid interest from Welsh clubsA report that suggested negotiations were at an advanced stage is understood to be wide of the markIndependent Sport · 28 Oct, 20:02
• Prem and RFU commit to expanding with English clubs after report of Welsh sides joiningReport claimed two Welsh sides could join Prem Joint statement said ‘resources focused on English clubs’ Prem Rugby and the Rugby Football Union have stated they are committed to expanding the top flight with English clubs in response to a report claiming that two Welsh sides could soon join the competition. According to the report, the Welsh Rugby Union is in advanced discussions with Prem Rugby and the RFU over the possibility of turning the Prem into a cross-border competition. Continue reading...Guardian Sport · 28 Oct, 17:17
• PREM Rugby wants English expansion despite Welsh interestEnglish rugby's governing bodies say they are committed to expanding the PREM with sides from England rather than clubs from Wales.Sky Sports · 28 Oct, 17:07

In this story: Prem Rugby · Rugby Football Union · Welsh Rugby Union · England · Wales

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