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MNN Global · February 26, 2026 · 1 min read

RFU to approve major changes in English rugby structure

What happened: The Rugby Football Union is set to confirm a significant overhaul of English rugby, separating the Premiership from the rest of the league system and ending promotion and relegation.

Why it matters:

  • This change will alter the competitive landscape and financial dynamics of English rugby.
  • Clubs outside the Premiership will no longer have the chance to move up or down through league performance.

MNN Take: The RFU aims to create a more stable and commercially viable top tier, but this restructures the traditional pyramid system that has governed English rugby for years.

Sources: BBC Sport