Cardiff Rugby say that they are “relieved and encouraged” by the Welsh Rugby Union’s decision to keep one of the three future regions in the capital.

In a statement on the club’s website, Cardiff said that representatives on behalf of the club – including  interim managing director Jamie Muir, coach Corniel van Zyl, and player representative Josh McNally – with Professional Rugby Board chair Malcolm Wall and WRU Director of Rugby Dave Reddin on Friday to discuss the Union’s decision.

With Cardiff still under WRU ownership and based in the capital, their future as a region has been relatively secure under the circumstances. Now that the WRU have confirmed that one of the three licences will continue in the capital, the future looks clearer.

Cardiff stated: “The WRU set out their plans and we have been assured that one of the three teams will be in Cardiff.

“We are relieved and encouraged by this. As a club we are confident in our position and viability, and our sole focus remains steadfast on ensuring Cardiff Rugby remains at the Arms Park as Cardiff Rugby.

“This will be reiterated with absolute confidence and clarity on our follow up meeting with the Welsh Rugby Union.”

The club did express concern for the rest of Welsh rugby, as at least one club will cease to exist by 2027. The WRU have set out parameters for that process, with an open dialogue with the current owners of the remaining clubs set to open soon.

“While this is positive news for the future of Cardiff Rugby, we recognise this is a significant change, which creates uncertainty for many friends and colleagues across Welsh rugby,” the statement continued.

“We now look forward to exploring the wider detail and working collaboratively to help shape the future of professional rugby in Wales as we approach our 150th anniversary season.”

Dragons ‘pleased’ with decision

Dragons RFC have also released a positive statement in support of the WRU’s plans, stating that they are “pleased that the WRU has accepted that elite rugby must remain in Gwent.”

In a statement published in the hours after the Union’s plans were announced, the Newport-based team did also lay out a number of concerns for the future of rugby in the region.

“We are also encouraged that the strength and potential of rugby across Gwent has been recognised, from the deep community roots of our clubs to the pathway opportunities for young players,” said the Dragons.

“Sustaining and growing the game in this region is vital for Welsh rugby’s future, and we welcome the commitment to ensuring that Gwent continues to play a central role.

“There are still significant issues which we encourage the WRU to reconsider. It is essential that clubs retain control of rugby decisions; this will ensure a sustainable domestic model which helps build a successful national team.

“We will continue engaging with the WRU to make sure that the structures and governance of the game are made acceptable.”

David Wright, Chairman of Dragons RFC, added: “Retaining elite rugby in Gwent is the correct decision; I’m pleased that the WRU has accepted that.

“We’ll carry on talking to the Union and hope to reach agreement on a sustainable operating model.

“The last few months have been difficult and uncertain for the Dragons community. We are so grateful for the continued support of everyone connected with our club.”

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