Ospreys supporters protest against WRU’s plans
Around 200 Ospreys supporters staged a demonstration outside the Brewery Field in Bridgend this evening, voicing their opposition to Welsh Rugby Union proposals that have cast serious doubt over the club’s future, reports BritPanorama.
The protest took place ahead of the team’s United Rugby Championship fixture against the Dragons on Saturday night. Fans gathered to express their anger at plans that would see Welsh professional rugby reduced from four teams to three, with no assurances given that the Ospreys will continue operating as a professional outfit after June 2027.
The governing body’s decision to enter exclusive negotiations with Y11 to acquire Cardiff sparked the backlash. Protesters brandished placards declaring “WRU + Y11 = TRAITORS” while directing their fury at both the governing body and the club’s ownership. Chants of “Shame on you, WRU” rang out from the assembled crowd.
The Ospreys’ Supporters Club coordinated the demonstration, which represented an escalation of fan action in recent weeks. The previous weekend saw supporters illuminate their phone torches during the 11th minute of the home match against the Lions, a gesture subsequently replicated by Cardiff fans the following evening. Local councillors and numerous former players have also publicly criticised the WRU and Y11’s actions since the exclusivity announcement emerged a fortnight ago.
Former Wales internationals Shane Williams and Ian Gough addressed the gathered supporters, both having been outspoken about the threat facing the Ospreys over the past week. Earlier this week, the pair put their names to a statement opposing the plan to eliminate the club.
“We will do whatever it takes to hopefully mean the Ospreys will continue to exist,” Williams told BBC Scrum V. The former wing described the situation as deeply upsetting for someone connected to the region since its inception, adding that he could only imagine the turmoil current players must be experiencing. “It’s difficult and feels very personal for me,” he said.
As the regional rugby landscape hangs in the balance, the passion of the Ospreys’ supporters serves as a stark reminder of the deep connections forged between clubs and communities, highlighting how sport often intertwines with identity and ownership struggles.
