Former Wales captain Jonathan Davies has publicly urged the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) board to resign, adding his voice to a growing chorus of criticism against the governing body. Davies expressed concerns over the direction of Welsh rugby, stating that the sport "has stopped belonging to the people."
His comments come as the WRU has reiterated its intention to reduce the number of professional teams from four to three by the 2028 season. Under these plans, WRU-owned Cardiff and privately-backed Dragons are slated to receive licenses, leaving the Scarlets and Ospreys in uncertainty. The process for deciding which of the two remaining clubs will receive the final license is set to begin in December and conclude before the end of the 2026-27 campaign.
Both the Scarlets and Ospreys have publicly voiced their opposition to the proposed reduction. Jon Daniels, managing director of the Scarlets, has stated that there are no plans for a merger with the Ospreys and called for increased transparency from the WRU. The Ospreys have responded by asserting their belief that four professional sides represent the optimal path forward for Welsh rugby, deeming the WRU's plan to cut a team as flawed.
Davies argued that the economy and the game in Wales are suffering, and that "change is needed." He believes that stakeholders, including former players, regions, clubs, and fans, must voice their opinions to force necessary changes. "Let's get together and try and make a change," Davies urged, emphasizing the need to secure a sustainable future for the sport in Wales.
He articulated a vision where the WRU's primary purpose is to ensure rugby union remains integral to the identity, culture, and soul of Wales, existing in "every village and town." This, he stated, forms the foundation for developing talent pathways to the regions and the national team, harnessing the unique passion and talent within Wales.
Davies' call for the WRU board's resignation follows similar sentiments from former Cardiff board member Hayley Parsons and Rob Regan, a former chief operating officer of Principality Building Society, who has indicated readiness to serve on an alternative interim board.