Rugby League Undergoes Transformative Changes for 2025 Season
As the 2024 season progresses, the rugby league community is abuzz with anticipation for the upcoming 2025 campaign, which promises to be a historic one. The structure of the three divisions in England – Super League, Championship, and League One – will undergo a significant overhaul, with the composition of these leagues determined by a grading system rather than solely on-field performance.
This shift, introduced by the RFL’s marketing partners, IMG, is part of a 12-year deal aimed at enhancing the commercial viability of the sport. The grading system will place greater emphasis on off-field factors such as stadium, finances, and marketing, in addition to the teams’ on-field performance.
The preliminary grades, released in October, have confirmed that seven clubs have achieved the coveted A-Grade status, guaranteeing their place in the 2025 Super League. These teams are Leeds Rhinos, Wigan Warriors, St Helens, Catalans Dragons, Warrington Wolves, Hull KR, and Hull FC.
“Despite the recent troubles at Hull FC, the club is expected to retain its Super League status, thanks to its A-Grade standing. The grading system is designed to safeguard against teams going bust by pursuing promotion at all costs, potentially destabilizing the league’s overall sustainability.”
Looking ahead to the 2025 Super League, it is likely that the current seven A-Grade clubs will be joined by Salford Red Devils and Huddersfield Giants, who are knocking on the door of that elite status. The final three spots in the 12-team league will be fiercely contested, with Leigh Leopards, Castleford Tigers, Wakefield Trinity, and Toulouse Olympique set to battle it out.
While London Broncos’ stay in the top flight will be short-lived, the likes of Wakefield Trinity and Leigh Leopards have made significant strides to secure their Super League status through stadium upgrades and new investment. Castleford Tigers, too, are working to boost their attendance and meet the grading criteria.
Ultimately, the 2025 Super League will feature a mix of established powerhouses and teams that have adapted to the new grading system, ensuring the long-term sustainability and growth of rugby league in England.
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