PWR explores league expansion with call to clubs

Gloucester-Hartpury have won the league's past three titles and are currently top of the table Premiership Women's Rugby has opened an 'expressions of interest' process in a bid to explore more clubs joining the league. There are currently nine teams in the PWR, which launched in 2023 following the rebrand of the Premier 15s. A statement said this is an "exploratory stage not a formal application process" to expand the league but its purpose is to access the readiness of potential future entrants.

"This is a unique opportunity to join a dynamic, fast-growing, world-class competition and play a meaningful role in shaping the next chapter of women's rugby," said PWR executive chair Genevieve Shore. "The process will help guide the next phase of the company's development, informing plans for competition structures designed to support long-term success and commercial growth. " Leicester and Trailfinders are the most recent clubs to enter the PWR three years ago when they joined Gloucester-Hartpury, Bristol, Sale, Exeter, Saracens, Harlequins and Loughborough in the top tier.

All are supported by men's Prem sides apart from Trailfinders, who are linked to Champ side Ealing. Clubs across the UK and Ireland have until 30 April to submit their interest, after which PWR says decisions will be made on whether any further discussions should take place. Expansion of the league for 2026-27 had previously been ruled out but beyond that the PWR said the future is undecided.

New clubs as well as existing franchises are eligible to get in touch however they must meet a number of criteria. This includes being able to invest at least £1. 2m annually in their rugby programme, be able to field a squad of 45-55 players and provide facilities that meet PWR competition, broadcast and training standards.