The Llanelli-based Scarlets have insisted their "focus remains unchanged and unhindered" after the Welsh Rugby Union confirmed that either they or the Ospreys will be left out of the men's professional game's new three-team structure.
The WRU said this week that Cardiff and Dragons are set to receive licences representing the capital and east Wales respectively from the 2028-29 season. That leaves the Scarlets and Ospreys competing for the single west Wales licence, with the formal licensing process due to begin in December and conclude by the end of the 2026-27 season.
Fresh uncertainty for West Wales
The announcement has created fresh uncertainty over the future of professional rugby in west Wales, once again raising the prospect of a potential merger between the two threatened teams. However, the Scarlets have responded by insisting their focus remains firmly on the new season and its long-term future.
In a statement issued to supporters, the Scarlets said: "It is our mission, as it has always been, to be at the forefront of a strong, meaningful and sustainable future for rugby in West Wales. Our focus remains unchanged and unhindered."
Club statement and supporter thanks
"We head towards an exciting new URC and EPCR season with confidence and purpose. We have made significant progress on and off the field and that momentum will continue at pace."
"We are bolstered by the support and engagement we consistently receive from an established and growing network of supporters, partners and stakeholders both at home and across global rugby nations: people who share in our passion for our region and unite in our vision to ensure the Scarlets remain at the heart of West Wales."
The statement also thanked supporters for their backing during one of the most significant periods in the club's history. "Our thanks to everyone connected with Scarlets for your unwavering support and we look forward to seeing you at Parc y Scarlets for the first home game of the season on Saturday, September 26 against Cardiff. What better opportunity to showcase the Heart and Soul of West Wales beating louder and prouder than ever. Diolch yn Fawr. Yma O Hyd."
New professional structure
The WRU's announcement confirmed its long-held intention to reduce the men's professional game from four regions to three in a bid to create a more financially sustainable model for Welsh rugby. Cardiff and Dragons are expected to receive the capital and east Wales licences, while the final west Wales licence will be awarded to either the Scarlets or Ospreys following a licensing process that is expected to finish before the end of next season.
The governing body has also said it will work with all four professional clubs over the coming months to develop the future operating model before the new structure comes into force for the 2028-29 campaign.
