Dragons chief executive Rhys Blumberg acknowledges that avoiding a cut from the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) brings added pressure for improved results. With the WRU planning to reduce the number of professional men's clubs from four to three by 2028, the Dragons have set an ambitious goal of reaching the United Rugby Championship (URC) play-offs.

In July, it was confirmed that the privately-owned Dragons and WRU-owned Cardiff would retain their licenses, leaving the Scarlets and Ospreys to compete for the remaining spot. When questioned about the implications of the WRU's plans, Blumberg stated, "Yes, I do, and I honestly think it will be a great year for us."

Historically, Dragons have struggled, often finishing at the bottom of the Welsh rankings. However, they showed notable improvement in the 2025-26 season, making it to the semi-finals of the Challenge Cup and accumulating 28 points in the URC, a significant increase from the nine points in the previous season.

Blumberg has communicated a clear target:

We want the top eight, I have made that very well known to Filo [Tiatia] and he is definitely on board with that ambition.

The Dragons will kick off their season against Benetton on September 25, followed by crucial home derbies against the Scarlets and Ospreys. Despite their recent progress, the team faces ongoing uncertainty off the field, with Blumberg mentioning an "air of tension" among professional clubs due to prolonged disputes with the WRU.

As the WRU moves forward with its plans, Blumberg emphasizes the necessity of maximizing revenue and managing costs effectively, acknowledging the difficult conversations surrounding the future of professional rugby in Wales.