Prem prioritising English expansion amid interest from Welsh clubs

The Gallagher Prem, England's rugby league, is prioritising the expansion of its top-flight division with English clubs, despite reports of Welsh interest. The WRU has expressed strong interest in creating an Anglo-Welsh league, but it is understood that the suggestion of negotiations being at an advanced stage is inaccurate. Talks have taken place between the WRU and Prem executives, but the Prem remains focused on expanding within England.

The league currently has 10 teams and aims to add two more by the 2029/30 season, with potential growth beyond that. Any clubs wishing to join the top flight must spend a year in the Championship first, with promotion and relegation removed. Instead, prospective joiners must meet stringent league standards. Any possible addition of Welsh clubs to the league would require approval from the RFU.

The Prem is committed to expanding the English top-flight, with a provisional target to grow to 12 teams by 2029-30. The league office is focused on supporting English clubs throughout the pyramid who aspire to join the league, and resources are being used to develop prospective clubs. The idea of an Anglo-Welsh venture has been proposed before, but there are concerns over the relationship with the RFU and the P-share cost.

The WRU plans to cut one of the four Welsh clubs in the URC by 2028, which could impact any potential Welsh clubs joining the Prem. The WRU remains committed to providing four teams to the URC until the end of the 2027-28 season.

Brief written by urgent.news from Yahoo Sports's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.