The Welsh Rugby Union has confirmed Dragons RFC and Cardiff Rugby have signed up to the new Professional Rugby Agreement (PRA25).
Funding arrangements and other conditions and requirements set out in PRA25 are well documented, with increased and fixed funding of up to £6.5m (over the current funding model which provides £4.5m) one of the headline advantages, beginning next season.
The WRU will now focus on delivering its improved operational performance supported by a refinancing of its current debt obligations in order to meet its commitment to PRA25.
“I’m absolutely delighted to confirm the new PRA25 is now agreed for Cardiff Rugby and Dragons RFC,” said WRU CEO Abi Tierney.
“The PRA25 will provide a stable platform to enable sustained success on the field for Cardiff and Dragons and will significantly support the overall progress of the professional game in Wales.
“Dragons RFC have joined Cardiff Rugby in signing the PRA25 agreement, demonstrating their commitment to the long-term future of Welsh professional rugby through to 2029. The WRU welcomes their decisiveness at a crucial moment.”
Dragons pay tribute to retiring Brok
Dragons RFC will pay tribute to retiring legend and former front row great Brok Harris when they face DHL Stormers this Saturday afternoon in Cape Town.
After 435 professional games, Harris, 40, has called time on a 20-year professional career – which included a seven-year spell at the Dragons.
The South African will sadly not face his former side in the BKT United Rugby Championship in Cape Town on Saturday afternoon because of a knee injury he picked up during the Stormers’ recent victory over Benetton.
But the Men of Gwent will still be part of celebrations on the day and Head Coach Filo Tiatia revealed how the club would also be presenting Brok with a special tribute post game.
“I’ve only watched Brok on the box and he’s been a servant for the Dragons for many years. A reliable and robust player and fans love him,” said Tiatia.
“Most of the players who’ve rubbed shoulder to shoulder with him on the grass are looking forward to seeing him and there’s a nice little presentation that will go ahead post-game.”
Front row Rhodri Jones also paid tribute to the legend that is Brok Harris adding: “A lot of the boys who played with and worked with him speak very highly of him.
“For him to do it so long is fantastic, so fair play to him. He’s come to an end now, but he’s had a wonderful career.
“It’s a shame (he won’t be playing), he’s been a legend with Stormers and the Dragons. It would’ve been fitting for him to finish in this game, but that is rugby sometimes, isn’t it?
“It still doesn’t change his wonderful career and I’m sure it’ll be a great occasion on Saturday.”
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