Rugby League Governing Body Reaffirms Commitment to 12-Team Super League, But Debate Continues
In a recent media briefing, Rugby Football League (RFL) Chief Executive Tony Sutton reiterated the governing body’s intention to maintain a 12-team Super League. However, the aftermath of London Broncos’ surprise victory over Hull FC has reignited the discussion around the league’s composition and London’s potential relegation.
Speaking on Sky Sports’ The Verdict program, Broncos head coach Mike Eccles candidly addressed the possibility of his team’s relegation at the end of the current season. Eccles stated that the club is preparing a proposal to present to the RFL, hoping to secure London’s continued participation in Super League.
“We’re getting on with it, the club is putting together a proposal of where we think we should go and hopefully give us a bit of an opportunity to stay in the competition,” Eccles said.
One potential solution to keep London in the top flight would be to expand Super League to 14 teams. According to Sutton, the league’s future aspirations involve growing the competition when the conditions and the presence of more “A-grade” clubs allow it.
Based on the current IMG grading criteria, a 14-team Super League in 2025 could include the following clubs:
- Leeds Rhinos – A
- Wigan Warriors – A
- St Helens – A
- Catalans Dragons – A
- Warrington Wolves – A
- Hull KR – A
- Hull FC – A
- Salford Red Devils – B
- Huddersfield Giants – B
- Toulouse Olympique – B
- Wakefield Trinity – B
- Leigh Leopards – B
- Castleford Tigers – B
- London Broncos – B
While London is currently ranked 24th, Eccles has questioned the accuracy of their catchment area score, suggesting it is “unrealistically low.” The Broncos’ proposal aims to challenge this grading.
The expansion to 14 teams would likely eliminate the unpopular loop fixtures, allowing each team to play the other 13 sides twice, plus an additional Magic Weekend fixture, resulting in a total of 27 regular-season matches.
The current play-off system, featuring the top six teams, is expected to remain in place, ensuring a balance between simplicity and competitiveness.
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