They have insisted that the West Wales region must be part of the Welsh Rugby Union’s proposed three-team future — despite appearing the most at risk of being cut.
The battle for their survival has already taken on a deeply political and cultural aspect - with protest marches and politicians’ interventions - and that is likely to be ramped up over the next few weeks and months.
Following the WRU’s announcement that it intends to reduce Wales’ four professional men’s teams to three by 2027, the Scarlets’ Board of Directors released a statement expressing confidence that the club will “continue to play a central role in the future of the game in West Wales from its home at Parc y Scarlets.”
Under the WRU’s plan, Cardiff and the Dragons appear guaranteed long-term survival, leaving either the Ospreys or Scarlets likely to disappear.
However, the Scarlets are adamant that their rich heritage, proven track record and deep-rooted community ties make them an indispensable part of the national game.
“We recognise the scale of change the WRU has outlined and as a club we will engage constructively and professionally,” the Board said in a statement.
“We believe it is in everyone’s interests to reach a solution as quickly as possible to bring stability back into our game.”
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The WRU has agreed to meet Scarlets executives in early November to discuss the financial and operational details of the proposal.
The club says it has been promised a fair and transparent process based on “clear metrics” before any final decision is made.
The Llanelli-based region, established in 2003 as one of Welsh rugby’s founding professional sides, argues that it offers something no other region can replicate — a combination of sustained on-field achievement, community integration, and cultural identity that stretches back more than 150 years.
“Rugby must stay connected to its communities, people and history and its values. That’s what gives our game its soul,” the club said.
“We want reform that strengthens Welsh rugby. With Scarlets in the future structure, Welsh rugby keeps a proven talent pathway, an internationally respected brand and a first-class home for rugby at Parc y Scarlets.”
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The Scarlets say they have already presented a detailed submission to the WRU Board setting out the club’s sporting, cultural and economic credentials.
In performance terms, the region boasts two league titles, 12 European quarter-final appearances and five semi-finals — the strongest record of any Welsh side in European competition.
When it comes to player development, 34% of all Wales internationals over the past decade have come through the Scarlets system, underscoring the club’s reputation as a breeding ground for national talent.
Beyond rugby, the Scarlets argue they play a vital cultural and economic role in West Wales. Rooted in the Welsh-speaking heartlands, they see themselves as custodians of language, identity and pride within the professional game.
Their home, Parc y Scarlets, is described as a “national asset” — a world-class facility capable of hosting elite rugby, community events, and even public service operations.
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The 15,400-capacity ground generates an estimated £17 million for the local economy each year, supports more than 330 jobs, and delivers community programmes that reach over 40,000 young people annually through the Scarlets Community Foundation.
The club also points to the stadium’s versatility and importance to the region. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Parc y Scarlets served as a 480-bed field hospital, highlighting its scale and value beyond sport.
“No other regional rugby facility offers this combination of capacity, quality and community integration,” the statement added.
“Parc y Scarlets is a platform for growth that can serve the entire Welsh game.”
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Scarlets officials are calling on supporters, players, and the broader West Wales community to rally behind their cause as the restructuring debate intensifies.
“The Scarlets Board has called on everyone connected with its club and region to embrace the long-term opportunity presented by Scarlets championing the future of sustainable and successful pro rugby based in West Wales,” the club said.
For now, attention will turn to discussions with WRU leaders in November, but the tone from Llanelli makes clear that the region is preparing to fight for its place in the professional structure.
“This weekend, we now prioritise the wellbeing of players, coaches, staff and families,” the Board concluded.
“We thank our supporters and stakeholders for their continued input and support. As a club we are now focused on supporting our players for the game against Hollywoodbets Sharks in Durban.”
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