English rugby’s governing bodies have said they are committed to expanding the PREM with clubs from England rather than Wales, following reports that the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) was interested in joining a cross-border competition.
The reports emerged on Wednesday, suggesting the WRU was in advanced discussions with PREM Rugby and the Rugby Football Union (RFU) about turning the PREM into a cross-border competition.
English focus on domestic expansion
The PREM is aiming to grow from 10 to 12 sides in time for the 2029/2030 season. PREM Rugby and the RFU insist their priority is to back domestic teams.
“Resources are currently focused on supporting English clubs throughout the pyramid who aspire to join the league,” they said in a joint statement.
“The PREM is an attractive league and responsibility for its expansion sits with the Men’s Professional Rugby Board (MPRB), which has established detailed entry criteria that any prospective club would need to satisfy.”
Wales keeps its options open
Despite that position, the WRU, which last week announced a loss of £18.1m for 2025/26, has confirmed its commitment to supplying four teams to the United Rugby Championship until the 2027/28 season. It has also highlighted the appeal of joining the PREM.
“By the end of the 2027/28 season, the WRU will have determined the future operating model for the men’s game in Wales,” the statement read.
“The WRU will continue to work with other shareholders in the URC on future Welsh representation in the competition.
“The WRU keeps under review the competition opportunities which may be available across the game and could be in the best interests of Welsh rugby.
“The idea of Anglo-Welsh competitions is something that is often debated by Welsh rugby fans.
“The WRU understands the appeal of the English top-flight, which is why we are pitching for two of our women’s teams, Brython Thunder and Gwalia Lightning, to be included in Premiership Women’s Rugby.”