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The English Championship side are reportedly in negotiations to join the United Rugby Championship if a Welsh region is cut
English Championship high-flyers Ealing Trailfinders are in “advanced talks” about joining the United Rugby Championship if a Welsh region is cut, according to RugbyPass.
The developments come amid ongoing uncertainty surrounding the future structure of Welsh professional rugby, with the Welsh Rugby Union set to reduce the number of regions ahead of the 2027/28 season.
Ealing have long dominated England’s second tier, winning all 25 of their league games this season and establishing themselves as the standout side in the Championship over recent years.
However, their route into the Premiership has been blocked due to stadium regulations at Vallis Way, which does not meet minimum capacity and compliance requirements set by the RFU.
Those restrictions would not apply in the URC, with the cross-border competition understood to be open to expansion — particularly into the London market.
Previous discussions have even seen Ealing explore a potential merger with Ospreys, one of the regions reportedly at risk alongside the Scarlets.
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The financial barrier to entry into the English top flight has also been a sticking point, with the cost of a Premiership “P-share” – believed to be between £12m and £20m – viewed as prohibitive.
Interest in broadening the URC’s footprint has grown in recent years, with London seen as a key strategic target following the success of showcase matches in the capital.
Other expansion options have also been discussed, including the potential return of the Cheetahs and the inclusion of Georgian side Black Lion.
But as it stands, Ealing appear firmly in the frame – and could yet benefit from any major shake-up in Welsh rugby’s professional landscape.
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