RFL members have given strong support to the principles and direction of the recommendations put in place by its new strategic partner, sports management company IMG in what could be the biggest changes to the Super League since its inception 25 years ago
Last Updated: 13/10/22 4:27pm
RFL clubs have given “strong support” to the principles and direction of radical new plans put in place by its new strategic partner, sports management company IMG in what could be the biggest changes to the sport since its inception 25 years ago.
After months of analysis, proposals have been put forward to the 37 clubs in the RFL on how the sport can move forward, with small changes to radical overhauls discussed among the rugby league community.
In the “Reimagining Rugby League Consultation Project”, IMG have put forward seven key measures that they believe will drive the sport’s long-term growth as IMG, the RFL and Super League embark on a 12-year strategic partnership.
They have been working with the sport and its partners to find a path forward from 2024 onwards that increases revenue and engagement, with the recommendations set out the first step of that plan and according to Simon Johnson, chairman of the Rugby Football League, the proposals “landed very well” with clubs, who will now work with IMG to scope out the details of the recommendations.
The stand-out proposal is a top tier that will be decided on both “on and off-field” criteria, a grading system deciding participation in the league.
How many clubs will be in this league is not yet outlined but there would then be a league of “Category B” clubs that participate in the second and third tier and continue with promotion and relegation.
These clubs that are considered “Category B” will be reassessed annually and the highest-ranking clubs will take part in the top tier.
The criteria for grading will be announced before the start of next season and will be introduced on an illustrative basis in 2024 before being rolled out fully in 2025. Category A are in top tier, Category B in top tier when space available and Category C will be in the second and third tier.
Further recommendations
Further to the proposals set out, IMG have also recommended the removal of loop fixtures, including the Magic Weekend, bringing the Challenge Cup final back to May and having increased focus on international breaks.
They say the issue for the sport has been too much focus on the format and structure itself rather than the product and are promoting a renewed focus on fan engagement and matchday experiences.
In order to put these proposals into action, IMG have had consultation meetings with the NRL and IRL about putting international rugby league at the forefront which should be helped by an aligned global calendar for the sport.
Outside of the format of the men’s competition, France, London and the women’s game identified as three areas of focus for growth.
However, the number of clubs outside of the UK would also be capped at two with a minimum number of domestic players in a match-day 17 among the participation criteria.
Those clubs must also subsidise incremental travel costs of UK clubs until a central contribution can otherwise cover them.
The aim by 2026 is to have a top flight with 14 teams and 14 teams in the Championship in 2024. League One remains flexible and there are no plans of merging clubs.