Regional rugby was introduced in Wales in 2003
Scarlets and Ospreys say they will not sign a new Professional Rugby Agreement (PRA25) until they have further clarity from the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU).
Wales’ four professional regions were given a deadline to sign a new five-year deal by 8 May, but only Cardiff and Dragons put pen to paper.
The PRA25 deal includes increased and fixed funding of up to 6.5m – compared to the current 4.5m – from next season.
But the two west Wales sides have not committed, with Cardiff’s takeover by the WRU last month among some “key issues” they want resolved.
A joint statement by Scarlets and Ospreys said: “We have asked the WRU for assurances and clarity that their ownership of Cardiff will not disproportionally benefit Cardiff and disadvantage the independent clubs.
“Our requests are made in the pursuit of clarity, professionalism, fairness and the long-term sustainability and future of all professional teams in Wales.
“We continue to be in discussion with the WRU on the issue of fairness and hope to have a positive outcome in the near future. Until we have greater clarity, we are currently unable to sign the PRA25.”
The WRU has been trying to get the new PRA over the line after months of negotiations, and offered a glimmer of hope in February when they said it had been agreed in principle.
But with Scarlets and Ospreys stalling, the WRU has an option to serve a two-year notice on their current PRA deal.
After that it has the authority to revoke their licences for competing in the United Rugby Championship (URC) and European competitions.
It could ultimately lead to one of the regions being lost – although WRU chief executive Abi Tierney has repeatedly said she does not want this to happen.
“We remain committed to working constructively with the WRU to find solutions that support the game across our country and ensure a level playing field for all,” added the Scarlets and Ospreys statement.
“We fully respect Cardiff and Dragons RFC’s positions and to make decisions based on their respective circumstances.”
