Statement from Regional Rugby Wales 'New European Competitions'

On behalf of the four Welsh Regions, the Scarlets, Cardiff Blues, Ospreys and Newport Gwent Dragons, Regional Rugby Wales (RRW) has issued the following statement on the announcement regarding the three new competitions in Europe.

“The Welsh Regions welcome the announcement confirming the commitment made by nine stakeholders into new European competitions for next season and beyond.

“The new competitions provide a positive way forward for Welsh Regional Rugby and the ability to drive forward commercial revenues of the most significant rugby club competition in the world.

“Fundamental changes within the new European competition structure will see the clubs take a greater stake in significantly growing the value of the professional game, which is crucial in our ability to remain competitive.

“The Welsh Regions are pleased that after giving their support to the Rugby Champions Cup last October, a new European platform has now been secured – based on a strong core principle of equal distribution by participating clubs. We can all now look forward to a more developed, competitive and high quality European competition next season.

“The Broadcasters’ need for regular, high quality club rugby content has been clearly illustrated in the latest round of agreements and we applaud the vision to work together to find a solution in the best interests of the game.

“The Regions would like to thank to all their supporters, partners and stakeholders in their businesses for their continued belief and commitment in the stance the Regions have taken during a challenging period to secure a sustainable future for Welsh Rugby.

“The Regions collectively employ close to 1,000 people with a total turnover approaching £30m and direct economic contribution to Wales in excess of £50m a year and will keep working hard to ensure their investment and responsibility to their communities are upheld.

“Now that both the European competitions and PRO12 league have been confirmed, all our efforts will now be concentrated on working with the WRU to ensure that we can reach a positive and progressive agreement – one that truly works in the interests of both parties to ensure a sustainable and competitive professional game in Wales at regional and international level.

“The is still is a lot of work still to be done as we go forward, with fundamental issues that urgently need to be addressed to ensure the whole of Welsh Rugby progresses and thrives.”