A huge win for the Ospreys

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The news that the Ospreys’ owners will no longer be taking over Cardiff Rugby is a huge relief for supporters, players and families across Neath, Swansea and the wider region.

Over recent weeks, there has been growing concern about proposals that could have resulted in one of Wales’ four professional rugby regions being lost. For many in our area, that raised the very real prospect of the Ospreys disappearing as a professional team, with serious consequences for supporters, grassroots rugby and our wider communities.

Throughout this campaign, I have spoken publicly about the importance of the Ospreys to our region. I raised the issue during the St David’s Day debate in Parliament, spoke to BBC Wales, and commented extensively in the South Wales Evening Post.

I have consistently made the case that the Ospreys are far more than a rugby team. They are part of our sporting identity and an important source of pride for communities across Neath and Swansea.

The club also makes a significant difference off the pitch. Through Ospreys in the Community, they support young people and families across South Wales, helping to inspire the next generation through sport.

I have seen that impact first-hand. Through the Everyone Deserves campaign, I have worked closely with Ospreys in the Community to help provide food for their Fit, Fed & Fun holiday camps, which give children healthy meals, activities and a safe environment during school breaks.

The strength of feeling shown over recent weeks has been extraordinary. Supporters, grassroots clubs, local authorities and communities came together to make clear just how much the Ospreys mean to this region.

Their voices were impossible to ignore.

This is a huge win for everyone who stood up for the future of the Ospreys.

While this announcement provides welcome reassurance, it must now lead to a clear and sustainable long-term plan for Welsh rugby. Players, supporters and communities deserve certainty, transparency and proper engagement.

I will continue to stand up for the future of the Ospreys and to fight for rugby across Neath and Swansea.