Union gives notice to end Professional Rugby Agreement after deal collapses with two Welsh regions

THE WELSH RUGBY UNION has confirmed it is terminating the current Professional Rugby Agreement (PRA), throwing the future of the Ospreys and Scarlets into serious doubt.

The decision follows a failure to reach agreement with the two regions by the WRU’s deadline, despite Cardiff and Dragons having already signed on to the proposed PRA25 deal. The Union has now served the required two-year notice period to end the current agreement in order to press ahead with debt reorganisation plans.

A joint statement released earlier this month by the Ospreys and Scarlets indicated both clubs were withholding support for the new agreement due to concerns about fairness and funding.

The statement read: “We have requested assurances from the WRU that its ownership of Cardiff Rugby will not disproportionately benefit Cardiff to the disadvantage of the other three clubs. Until we receive greater clarity on this matter, we are unable to sign the PRA25.”

The WRU insists that its decision is part of a longer-term strategy to create a more sustainable structure for Welsh rugby, even if that means stepping away from the current four-region model.

WRU Chief Executive Abi Tierney said: “We will continue to negotiate with the four clubs and accept that this situation is going to create an uncertain period. We will treat the clubs, the players and the fans with respect and fairness throughout the process.”

But the failure to bring Ospreys and Scarlets into the new agreement has intensified fears that one of the regions—likely based in Llanelli or Swansea—may be forced to fold or restructure after 2027.

The WRU’s ‘One Wales’ strategy initially proposed four equally funded regions, but the governing body has now admitted that such a model is no longer viable given the financial and structural challenges the game faces.

The Herald has contacted the Ospreys and Scarlets for updated comment following the WRU’s announcement.

Initiative aims to tackle stigma and improve wellbeing across grassroots sport

FOOTBALL clubs across Wales are being offered access to mental health awareness training as part of a nationwide drive to support players, coaches, and local communities.

The initiative, backed by Mind Cymru, UK Coaching, and the Football Association of Wales (FAW), will provide around 1,000 e-learning course places to clubs. The training will equip coaches with the knowledge and confidence to better understand and support individuals experiencing mental health challenges.

The announcement coincides with Mental Health Awareness Week (May 12–18), and follows the recent publication of the Welsh Government’s Suicide and Self Harm Prevention Strategy and Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy.

The course aims to break down stigma, address risk factors, and promote a positive sporting environment where mental wellbeing is prioritised. While the immediate focus is on raising awareness, Sport Wales is also developing a long-term preventative approach for the wider sporting sector.

A launch event was held on Thursday (May 15) at Barry Town United FC, attended by former Wales goalkeeper and FAW ambassador Neville Southall, Sports Minister Jack Sargeant MS, and Barry Town Club Secretary David Cole.

For Minister Sargeant, the campaign carries deep personal significance. He entered politics in the wake of his father Carl Sargeant’s death by suicide in 2017, and in 2022, lost his best friend Jamie Wynne – a fellow football enthusiast – in similar circumstances.

Speaking at the launch, he said: “It means so much to me to help kick this programme off during Mental Health Awareness Week.

“This isn’t an easy subject to speak about, but I know the importance of opening up. This is the best way I can honour Jamie, who believed so passionately in the power of grassroots football to bring people together.

“Sport – and football in particular – can be a powerful tool to reach those who might not otherwise seek help. If this training leads to even one meaningful conversation, it will have been worth it.”

Wales men’s national team Head Coach Craig Bellamy added his support: “We all need to take the time to raise our awareness and understanding of mental health. This training will give clubs the tools to play their part, and I’d encourage every club in Wales to get involved.”

Mental Health and Wellbeing Minister Sarah Murphy said the course has the potential to make a real difference:

“We want to build a culture where people feel safe to seek support without fear or judgement.

“This training can empower people to spot the signs, offer compassionate support, and help others access the services they need. It’s about creating real change at every level of Welsh sport.”

First win in 21 years caps off remarkable season for the Vikings

HAKIN UNITED are celebrating after being crowned West Wales Intermediate Cup champions for the 2024–25 season, following a dramatic 3–2 win over Tenby in Wednesday night’s final (May 15) at the Swansea.com Stadium.

The Vikings, who also recently won the Pembrokeshire Senior Cup, completed a sensational double in front of a passionate crowd, ending a 21-year wait to reclaim the prestigious regional title. Their last triumph in the competition came during the 2003–04 campaign.

The final proved to be a thrilling contest, with both sides going toe to toe in an evenly matched affair. Hakin’s attacking intent paid off with three vital goals, while Tenby refused to back down and kept themselves in the tie with two of their own. In the end, the Pembrokeshire League giants edged it, showing their experience and grit on the big stage.

The win was the culmination of a hard-fought campaign. Hakin had reached the final by overcoming Dafen Welfare 3–1 in the quarter-finals and then defeating St Joseph’s with a last-gasp winner from substitute Leon Luby in the semi-final – a moment that sealed their return to the West Wales showpiece after more than two decades.

The club’s official social media celebrated the achievement with the message: “West Wales Intermediate Champions 24/25 – Boys, we love you!” echoing the joy felt across the town and among the travelling supporters in Swansea.

This cup final success once again underlines Hakin United’s status as one of the most successful and consistent clubs in Pembrokeshire football. With silverware secured and pride restored, attention now turns to building on this momentum in the seasons ahead.

Photo caption:

Cup glory: Hakin United celebrate after winning the West Wales Intermediate Cup on Wednesday (Pic: Hakin United FC Facebook)spo