Dragons RFC have issued a firm warning to the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) that professional rugby must not be removed from Gwent.
The Newport-based region have also declared the club “has every reason to continue proudly in its current form.”
The Dragons’ owners – David Wright, David Buttress and Hoyoung Huh – released a strongly worded statement ahead of a pivotal consultation process that could reshape the future of the professional game in Wales.
The WRU is set to publish its “optimal solution” for the domestic structure in the coming days, with proposals potentially reducing the number of professional teams from four to three, or even two.
Cardiff, Ospreys, Scarlets and Dragons are all under scrutiny, and a final decision is expected by the end of October after a six-week consultation.
While the Scarlets have unveiled new investors, the Ospreys revealed plans to move back to a redeveloped St Helen’s, and Cardiff are backed by WRU ownership, the Dragons also feel they have cards to play and have made it clear that removing elite rugby from Gwent is not an option.
“When we took over the Dragons in 2023 our ambition was clear, we wanted to build a club that could thrive both on and off the field,” the statement read.
“That commitment has not changed. With the incredible support of our staff, players, partners and above all our fans we are making progress.
“We have established financial stability and we remain focused on driving forward on field performances.
“In the coming weeks we will take part in the WRU consultation on the future of the game in Wales.
“Our message will be simple and consistent - elite rugby must remain in Gwent and Dragons RFC has every reason to continue proudly in its current form.”
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Created in 2003, Dragons were one of the five original regional sides and returned to private ownership in June 2023 after a six-year period under WRU control.
Despite being the least successful Welsh side on the field in recent years, the club now owns its ground and stresses its financial stability as proof of its long-term viability.
The owners also emphasised that the survival of the Dragons is tied to the health of the national team.
“Like all Welsh fans we also want to see a strong national side, this requires a robust and competitive regional set up.
“We expect the WRU to listen carefully to all feedback during the consultation process and to reflect the views of every stakeholder when shaping its final proposals.
“We have great fans, dedicated staff and players, and fantastic partners. As custodians of Dragons RFC, we'll continue to represent the interests of our entire rugby community.”
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The WRU will consult widely, including with clubs, the Welsh Rugby Players’ Association, supporters’ trusts and even a 100-strong panel of fans.
CEO Abi Tierney has already suggested “it was hard to see a model where you don't see rugby being played in Cardiff,” but if consensus cannot be reached, the governing body may put licences out to tender, judged by an independent panel.
For now, however, the Dragons’ owners have left no doubt about their stance: rugby’s professional heartbeat must continue to pulse in Gwent.
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