South African Team Prepares for URC Return Amid Welsh Rugby Uncertainty

The Cheetahs are set to make a return to the United Rugby Championship this week, with a decision expected on their potential inclusion in the competition amid ongoing uncertainty over Welsh Rugby’s regional structure.

According to a report by Afrikaans publication Rapport, the Bloemfontein-based franchise will learn whether it will be readmitted to the URC, with a source indicating a positive outlook on the outcome of the discussions.

It’s part of the conversation, but a lot of water still needs to be drained

Top rugby administrator, as reported by Rapport

The Cheetahs were removed from the PRO14 in 2020 to make way for the four South African teams — Bulls, Lions, Stormers and Sharks — following their departure from Super Rugby and the formation of the United Rugby Championship.

Since their exit, the franchise has competed primarily in the Currie Cup and the Challenge Cup, lacking regular access to top-tier club rugby.

A potential return to the URC could be facilitated by Welsh Rugby’s plans to reduce the number of professional regions from four to three by the end of the 2027/28 season, creating a possible vacancy that the Cheetahs may fill.

The Welsh Rugby Union is currently mapping out the next stages of its proposal to cut one of the four professional regions, following the collapse of takeover talks between the WRU and Y11 Sport & Media over the Ospreys.

Details of the Cheetahs’ potential return remain limited due to the sensitivity of the negotiations, but official word is expected this week.