Traditional promotion and relegation to and from the top-tier Prem will be scrapped from the start of the 2026-27 season after landmark changes to English rugby were voted through.
Instead of earning a play-off shot at replacing the Prem’s bottom side by finishing top of the second-tier Championship and meeting the top flight’s minimum standards, ambitious clubs will instead apply to join and be judged across a range of criteria.
Bids will be assessed on standard of play, finances, investment potential, infrastructure and how their geographical base could help spread the Prem’s appeal.
The league hopes to expand to 12 teams, from its current 10, for the 2029-30 season.
“It’s long been clear that the previous system was not delivering the financial sustainability or long-term confidence the professional game needs,” said Mike McTighe, the chair of the Men’s Professional Rugby Board.
“We know there will be scrutiny, and rightly so. The proof will be in delivery: in improved stability, in renewed investor confidence, in tangible benefits to the women’s game and in sustained support for community rugby.”
