Cardiff Rugby

History of Cardiff Rugby

Cardiff Rugby was formed in 2003, when the structure of rugby union in Wales changed. At the time (and until 2021) the team was known as the Cardiff Blues. 

Prior to 2003, Wales was home to nine professional teams. However, it had been clear for a number of years that the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) did not have the money to support such a large number of clubs. As a result, after a period of review, four regional professional rugby teams were formed. These were the Cardiff Blues, the Dragons, Ospreys and the Scarlets. 

The Cardiff Blues rugby team officially joined the Celtic League in 2003. They’ve played in this competition ever since. After periods as the Pro12 and Pro14, today it’s known as the United Rugby Championship. 

Sadly, the Cardiff rugby team has never won the competition. However, they did finish second in consecutive seasons in 2006-07 and 2007-08.

Since their formation, Cardiff Rugby has also regularly featured in the European Rugby Champions Cup and the EPCR Challenge Cup. Although the team regularly reach the knock-out rounds of the European Rugby Champions Cup, they have never won the competition. But, they have claimed the EPCR Challenge Cup twice (2010 and 2018). With their 2010 triumph over Toulon, they became the first Welsh team to win a European trophy. 

Over the years, the Cardiff rugby squad has been packed with illustrious names and international players, including Sam Warburton and Leigh Halfpenny. Notably, former New Zealand great Jonah Lomu also played for the side for a season. 

Keen to follow Cardiff Rugby’s progress in this season’s edition of the United Rugby Championship? You’re in the right place. Follow their performances with RugbyPass.