Welsh Rugby Union CEO Abi Tierney has insisted her position is not untenable and she is determined to see through the reduction from four to three professional teams, despite calls for her resignation following the collapse of the Y11 deal to buy Cardiff Rugby.
Many supporters on social media have demanded Tierney follow WRU chair Richard Collier-Keywood out of the door after months of uncertainty. The WRU has offered PRA 25 to both the Ospreys and Scarlets, meaning they will retain four clubs until 2028 before reducing to three teams.
Tierney acknowledged the emotional toll of her role, describing the past year as 'emotionally draining and exhausting and very stressful'. However, she said she chooses to do the job and reflected on the instability that would come from changing both the chair and chief executive simultaneously.
Regarding the failed sale of Cardiff Rugby, Tierney explained that the WRU went through a collaborative process with Y11 but both parties concluded it was not the right time to sell. She declined to discuss commercial sensitivities around the decision.
Tierney confirmed that Y11 remains committed to the Ospreys and wants to sign the PRA 25 agreement as soon as possible, with investment taking them through to 2028. She also stated that the WRU board remains committed to reducing to three teams from an affordability and performance perspective.
