Recent years have indicated both regional and club rugby in Wales is in financial crisis, with sides such as Neath RFC closely defeating a liquidation order[2] and Ospreys at risk of losing key players[3] in 2019 and the 2019/20 season ahead.
Since the regionalisation of professional Rugby Union in Wales, the national team has undoubtedly experienced great success, with some attributing this to the regional concept.
[12] Such proposals face widespread opposition from sections of supporters whose local loyalties would prevent them from travelling to traditionally 'rival' grounds to follow their team, standing in the terraces with their bitter rivals.
Opponents of the proposal have also pointed to the struggles of the Scottish rugby union team in test fixtures since switching to a two-region model dominated by Edinburgh and Glasgow Warriors.
[13] The WRU nonetheless own both the team and the ground, so have strong control over the franchise's future.A regional rugby franchise, originally known as Rygbi Gogledd Cymru (Welsh language for "Rugby North Wales") and later known as RGC 1404, was established in North Wales; plans called for the side to enter the Welsh Premier Division as early as 2010–11 and eventually the Celtic League/Pro12, but the venture was unsuccessful and was liquidated in 2011.
As the most successful side in Pro14 (previously Celtic League) history, Ospreys now face significant issues, with reports of debts and stalled contract negotiations[15] threatening their claim to players such as Alun Wyn Jones[16] and head coach Allen Clarke.
[17] Managing director Andrew Millward had described the struggle, involving year long budget cuts and structural flaws in the Welsh rugby system,[18] as leaving Wales unable to compete with rivals IRFU and FRR.
Blues supporters also point to the fierce battle their side won to remain in their traditional Cardiff RFC colours and name back in 2003, and are unwilling to adopt a new identity.
[12] More recent discussions have punted merging western sides Scarlets and Ospreys, with the Llanelli and Swansea teams either sharing grounds or moving fully.