Scarlets PROFILE

The Scarlets are one of the most historic and well-supported rugby clubs in Wales, renowned for their attacking style of play and strong regional identity.

Established in 2003 as part of the restructuring of Welsh rugby, the club represents West Wales and is based in Llanelli, carrying forward the proud legacy of Llanelli RFC, one of Wales' most storied clubs.

In that regard, their history should be considered a continuation of Llanelli RFC’s history, in much the same as Cardiff Rugby are a follow-on from Cardiff RFC.

The Scarlets and Cardiff were both “stand alone” regions after the changes of 2003, unlike the Ospreys and Dragons who were formed after club mergers.

The club is owned by Scarlets Rugby Ltd, which has navigated financial challenges to maintain their position as a competitive force in domestic and European rugby.

The Scarlets currently compete in the United Rugby Championship (URC), the top-tier league featuring teams from Wales, Ireland, Scotland, Italy, and South Africa. They have also been regular contenders in European competitions, particularly the Heineken Champions Cup.

The Scarlets have enjoyed notable success, winning the Celtic League/Pro12 twice – in 2004 and 2017. 

Their 2017 triumph, under coach Wayne Pivac, saw them claim the title in thrilling fashion, defeating Munster 46-22 in the final.

The Scarlets, as they are known, play their home matches at Parc y Scarlets, a purpose-built stadium in Llanelli that has been their home since 2008. 

Before that, they played at the iconic Stradey Park, which witnessed some of the most famous moments in Welsh club rugby history.

One of the club’s most celebrated achievements came in 1972 when Llanelli RFC famously defeated the touring All Blacks 9-3 at Stradey Park, an event that remains a defining moment in Welsh rugby folklore.

The Scarlets have a strong European pedigree, having reached the semi-finals of the Heineken Champions Cup four times - in 2000, 2002, 2007 and 2018. 

READ MORE: Dwayne Peel’s Scarlets Aim To Chase Down Cardiff As URC Battle Hots Up

Despite not yet winning a European title, they have regularly challenged some of the biggest teams in the tournament.

The club’s origins date back to the professional era, but it retains deep ties to Llanelli RFC – who were nicknamed, the Scarlets -  one of the founding members of Welsh rugby. 

Throughout their history, the Scarlets have been home to some of the most iconic Welsh players, including Delme Thomas, Derek Quinnell, Phil Bennett, Ray Gravell, Ieuan Evans, Jonathan Davies, Scott Quinnell, Stephen Jones, Ken Owens, and Dwayne Peel. 

Many of these players have gone on to star for Wales and the British & Irish Lions, reinforcing the Scarlets’ reputation as a breeding ground for top talent.

The club has also welcomed high-profile overseas stars, including New Zealand’s Regan King and South Africa’s Werner Kruger, who have played key roles in the team’s success over the years.

What has always been a priority for the Scarlets and theirt supporters has been their playing style - a high tempo, fast-paced game with sharp handling skills and a sense of daring.

This approach- typified by some of their best successes under former coaches such as Carwyn James and Gareth Jenkins – was considered so criticial to the club’s identity, it became written into the club’s constitution.

Player development has always been a priority for the Scarlets, with their academy producing a steady stream of Welsh internationals. 

Despite their successes, the Scarlets have faced challenges in recent years, including financial difficulties and inconsistent performances in the URC. 

Changes in coaching staff and key player departures have at times disrupted their momentum.

Under current head coach Dwayne Peel, the club is now focused on rebuilding, with a strong emphasis on developing young players and maintaining a competitive squad capable of challenging for domestic and European honours.

The Scarlets maintain fierce rivalries with other Welsh regions, particularly the Ospreys, in the fiercely contested West Wales derby. 

Matches against Cardiff Rugby and Dragons are also key fixtures that generate significant interest.