Gallagher Prem: RFU set to confirm radical revamp for English rugby’s top league | The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload ourSocial PartnerWe are 8 logo (opens in a new tab)AllNewsSportCultureLifestyleHarry Latham-CoyleFriday 27 February 2026 13:28 GMTGallagher Prem is set to scrap promotion and relegation (Getty Images)The Rugby Football Union (RFU) council confirmed plans that will allow the Gallagher Prem to remove promotion and relegation.The move would separate the league from the rest of the men’s English rugby pyramid and move instead to a criteria-based expansion and demotion model.The league will look to expand from 10 to 12 teams for the 2029-30 season, with scope to potentially grow further in the future if suitable clubs apply for inclusion.Expansion clubs will have to play at least one season in the Champ, and either have to operate a team in Premiership Women’s Rugby or fund a meaningful regional women’s development plan.RFU chief executive Bill Sweeney acknowledged the “significant change” to the league but welcomed plans to evolve the league, attract further investment and ensure English rugby’s top flight remains sustainable.In fullEnglish rugby set for radical change as Prem ring-fencing and expansion plans approvedThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in