The 2025 Rugby League Super League Composition Reshaped by IMG Grading

As the 2025 rugby league season approaches, the composition of Super League will be dictated by a team’s IMG Grading score, a system introduced through a long-term partnership between the RFL and the marketing agency. This move aims to enhance the sport’s marketability and ensure stability, a welcomed change according to Sky Sports pundit Jon Wilkin, who believes it has “saved” Hull FC from potential embarrassment.

Performance-Based Promotion and Relegation Removed

Under the new system, performance-based promotion and relegation have been removed, with league composition now determined by team grades. Grade A teams (scoring 15 or more points out of 20) are guaranteed a spot in Super League, a criteria that Hull FC narrowly met in the preliminary gradings released in October.

Hull FC’s Escape from Relegation Threat

Despite Hull FC’s recent 34-18 loss to London Broncos, which prompted interim coach Simon Grix to question the players’ desire, the club’s IMG Grading of 15.05 points appears to have spared them from the threat of relegation. As Sky Sports’ Jon Wilkin noted, “Hull FC will be thankful for the IMG grading system that looks like it could save them from a real embarrassment this year.”

Criticism of the IMG System

However, the IMG system has faced criticism, with Leigh owner Derek Beaumont arguing that it undermines the integrity of the sport, stating, “Let’s relegate a team that’s trying their heart out and has just beat a team that’s got rid of their players thinking they are safe as a grade A Club.”

As the 2025 Rugby League World Cup fixtures loom and the new Sky Sports rugby league coverage continues, the impact of the IMG Grading on the Super League landscape will be closely watched by BBC rugby league enthusiasts and the wider sporting community.

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