WRU in talks with RFU to replace axed Welsh region with named English club

The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) has held discussions with the Rugby Football Union (RFU) and URC stakeholders about Championship club Ealing Trailfinders potentially replacing one of Wales' axed professional sides in the United Rugby Championship. The WRU remains committed to reducing its professional clubs from four to three by 2028, with one team in west Wales being cut. An earlier plan to bring in an American franchise was blocked by the South African Rugby Union, which is now a full URC shareholder.