Welsh rugby: Regions agreement key next step for WRU in 2025

Chief executive Abi Tierney says the Welsh Rugby Union’s (WRU) priority in 2025 is reaching a fresh agreement with all four of Wales’ professional regions.

In a New Year’s message Tierney also said the Union was “hugely optimistic about forging a new way ahead” in the community game.

With a new women’s lead and head coach due to be appointed, she spoke about excitement for the female game in Wales – and the challenges for the men’s side under Warren Gatland.

Tierney, speaking exactly a year since taking the role, said all elements of the WRU’s ‘One Wales’ strategy are agreed and being executed, while a deal with Cardiff, Dragons, Ospreys and Scarlets “one final and vital piece of the jigsaw”.

“Our professional game is such a key part of our strategic plan that we need to ensure we have our new Professional Rugby Agreement (PRA) before we can make the next move on some important elements,” said the Union CEO.

“For absolute clarity this means a new deal with all four current regional clubs which will increase finances and other supporting factors to levels which will enable continued success and sustainability long into the future and by 2029.”