Ospreys chief hits out at WRU U-turn but commits to major move in new statement
Ospreys chief hits out at WRU U-turn but commits to major move in new statement
The Ospreys CEO has issued an open letter to supporters amid a turbulent time in Welsh rugby
Ospreys chief executive Lance Bradley
(Image: Huw Evans Picture Agency Ltd )
Ospreys CEO Lance Bradley has addressed supporters in the wake of the Welsh Rugby Union's seismic announcement, hitting out the "disappointing" decisions taken but reaffirming the club's commitment to move to St Helen's.
It comes amid a turbulent few days in Welsh rugby, with the Union having posted a bombshell statement on Sunday after WalesOnline first reported the news on Saturday night.
We understand that cutting a region is one of many options on the table after the Scarlets and the Ospreys refused to sign the Professional Rugby Agreement (PRA) over fears the WRU would turn Cardiff into a super club after taking it over last month.
In a heartfelt open letter, Bradley thanked fans for their loyalty and support, while voicing concerns about the WRU's recent departure from the 'One Wales' strategy — a collaborative plan developed over the past year with all four Welsh professional clubs.
'The WRU's sudden U-turn away from that strategy and their commitment to a 'four teams, equally funded' model for Welsh professional rugby was surprising and disappointing,' Bradley wrote. 'It has raised questions for all four professional clubs, and for those who back and support them.'
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Despite the uncertainty surrounding the future funding landscape for Welsh regional rugby, Bradley sought to reassure fans that the Ospreys remain fully focused on building a strong and sustainable club — particularly as they prepare to relocate to St Helen's in Swansea.
'We want to reassure you, we are committed to building a sustainable, competitive and exciting future for the Ospreys,' he said. 'We're proud of who we are, what we stand for, and the role we play in Welsh rugby.'
Bradley also confirmed that Swansea Council's support for the redevelopment of St Helen's remains in place. Sign up to Inside Welsh rugby on Substack to get exclusive news stories and insight from behind the scenes in Welsh rugby.
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While acknowledging there are still 'many questions' surrounding the WRU's new direction, Bradley promised the Ospreys would continue to fight for both their future and that of Welsh rugby more broadly.
'Our focus stays the same: building a strong, sustainable future for the club, and continuing to do our supporters proud,' he added. 'Whether you're in the stands, watching from home, wearing the jersey, or backing us in spirit, you are Ospreys. And together, we'll get through this stronger than ever.'
The WRU's decision has already sparked concern across the Welsh rugby community, particularly among those backing regions who have not signed the new Professional Rugby Agreement, the Ospreys and the Scarlets.
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