PREM Rugby wants English expansion despite Welsh interest

Prem Rugby and the Rugby Football Union have affirmed their commitment to expanding England's top flight using domestic clubs rather than Welsh sides. Following reports that the Welsh Rugby Union was in discussions about a potential cross-border competition, the English governing bodies confirmed that their resources remain focused on supporting English clubs across the domestic pyramid.

The league plans to expand from 10 to 12 teams in time for the 2029/30 season under entry criteria set by the Men's Professional Rugby Board. Meanwhile, the WRU confirmed it remains committed to the United Rugby Championship through 2027/28, while also pitching to enter women's teams Brython Thunder and Gwalia Lightning into Premiership Women's Rugby.