Wainwright told Leicester’s website that “it was a little bit surreal” when told of Tigers’ interest and is “buzzing” to be headed to the Prem next season.
In a message to Dragons fans, he stressed his focus will remain on what he can do for a club he has been at since academy level.
“Dragons RFC and the Gwent region means a huge amount to me but now is the right time in my career for a fresh challenge. I hope all supporters can understand and support the decision I’ve made,” he told the Dragons website., external
Wainwright’s move continues a trend of top talent choosing to leave the ailing domestic scene in Wales.
The game’s governing body – the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) – said in October that one one of the county’s four professional men’s sides were to be cut.
It is yet to happen and, while more talks are expected in the coming weeks, there is growing discontent in the game.
Earlier this week, clubs were being urged to call an extraordinary general meeting of the WRU and hold a vote of no confidence in chair Richard Collier-Keywood.
Ospreys and Wales duo Jac Morgan and Dewi Lake announced in December that will join Gloucester for the 2026-27 season.
