Prem Rugby and RFU commit to English expansion despite Welsh interest
Prem Rugby and the Rugby Football Union confirmed plans to expand the top flight with English clubs on Wednesday, 28 October 2026, rejecting reports of a cross-border competition.
Joint statement confirms English priority
Prem Rugby and the RFU issued a joint statement insisting their priority is to support domestic English teams. They stated that resources are currently focused on supporting clubs throughout the pyramid who aspire to join the league. The Men's Professional Rugby Board has established detailed entry criteria that any prospective club would need to satisfy.
Target of twelve sides by 2030
The competition aims to expand from ten to twelve sides in time for the 2029/2030 season. Traditional promotion and relegation between tiers has been scrapped starting with the 2026-27 season. Clubs will now apply to join based on criteria including finances, infrastructure, and standard of play.
Welsh union financial context
Reports emerged that the Welsh Rugby Union is in advanced discussions regarding a potential cross-border competition. The WRU recently announced a loss of £18.1m for the 2025/26 season. English bosses confirmed interest from the WRU but insist negotiations are not currently taking place.
3 outlets, different leads
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Sky Sports
PREM Rugby wants English expansion despite Welsh interest
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The Guardian
Prem and RFU commit to expanding with English clubs after report of Welsh sides joining
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BBC News
Prem eyes English expansion despite Welsh interest
Reported by
3 independent outlets. Headlines as published. Links open the original report.