The Utah Warriors have officially withdrawn from Major League Rugby (MLR) ahead of the 2026 season, citing failure to secure the additional funding and ownership support needed to continue operations. The organization announced it will suspend first-team rugby activities indefinitely.

CEO Kimball Kjar shared the news in a statement to fans, confirming that all 2026 season ticket deposits will be refunded within a week. The decision comes after what was considered a strong 2025 campaign, including an 11–5 record and a return to the playoffs.

With Utah’s exit, MLR will operate with six teams in 2026: California, Seattle, Chicago, Carolina, New England, and Washington, D.C.

The Warriors were one of the league’s founding members and were built on Utah’s deep Polynesian rugby heritage, with decades of local youth programs and community involvement. Kjar emphasized that rugby will continue in Utah, shifting focus to youth, club, and grassroots development until professional play can return.

“This isn’t the end for rugby in Utah,” said Kjar. “Warriors never give up. When the time comes, we’ll be here to welcome pro rugby back.”