The system of promotion and relegation between the Champ and the Prem will be replaced at the start of the 2026/27 season, with ambitious sides now applying for promotion, to be judged on finances, investment potential, infrastructure, standard of play, how their location could help spread the appeal of the Prem wider, rugby performance, attendance and fan engagement.
The PREM aims to expand from 10 teams to 12 by the 2029/30 campaign, with Warriors having made no secret of their ambitions to return to the top flight of English Rugby.
Join the Worcester Warriors news Facebook group here
Sign up to our brand new weekly Worcester Warriors newsletter here
For exclusive access to all the Worcester Warriors news stories, sign up for a digital subscription . Enjoy full access to live blogs, player interviews, analysis and more.
Following the announcement of the system change last Friday (February 27), Warriors have today released a statement both recognising the concept behind the change, but also stating that it is “essential” that the full implications of governance changes are understood.
The club said: “Worcester Warriors acknowledges the recent communication from the Rugby Football Union and PREM Rugby, regarding changes to governance structures and the future framework surrounding promotion and relegation within the professional game.
“We recognise and understand the initial concept behind these proposals, as well as the clear benefits they are intended to deliver for the current PREM clubs and the broader stability of the top tier.
“Greater financial certainty, long-term planning capability, and structural alignment across the professional game are important objectives, and we share the ambition of building a sustainable and competitive future for English rugby.
“That said, proposals of this significance inevitably raise important questions. As a club with proud traditions, a passionate supporter base, and long-term aspirations within the top flight of the English game, it is essential that we fully understand the implications of any governance changes — particularly in relation to promotion and relegation, competitive integrity, financial sustainability, and the pathway for ambitious clubs.”
The club added it remains in constructive dialogue with the Prem, to ensure it gains clarity on how changes affect Warriors specifically.
“Our priority is to understand what these changes mean for our strategic planning and, crucially, what they look like in terms of a sustainable future at the highest level of English rugby,” said the club.
“Throughout this process, we will advocate for solutions that preserve ambition, reward performance, and protect the long-term health of the professional pyramid. We believe that English rugby is strongest when it balances stability with opportunity — and when clubs, players, and supporters can clearly see a credible pathway to the top.
“We remain committed to working collaboratively with all stakeholders while safeguarding the best interests of Worcester Warriors, our supporters, partners, and the wider rugby community.
