Leigh Leopards Owner Confident in Super League Future Under IMG’s Proposals
Leigh Leopards owner Derek Beaumont has asserted that the club will “100 per cent” remain safe in Super League under IMG’s proposals for 2025. This comes as the Leopards close in on the signing of New Zealand forward Aaron Pene.
Pene’s arrival is expected to be announced this week, and he could be available for Leigh’s next Super League fixture against Catalans Dragons next Saturday. Securing Pene’s signature for this season and the next would provide a major boost for the Leopards.
Addressing concerns about Leigh’s standing in the provisional IMG gradings, where they were ranked 12th last year, Beaumont explained that their score will be much higher this year. “That’s 100 per cent not going to happen,” he said when asked if Leigh might be at risk of being kicked out of Super League.
Beaumont revealed that Leigh’s preliminary financial pillar score of 1.35 out of 5 has since been increased to 15.05 after the club’s financial work. He noted that while they may lose some points for their Challenge Cup performance and crowd figures, their overall position is set to start with a “14” and firmly keep them in Super League.
“That’s 100 per cent not going to happen,” he said when asked if Leigh might be at risk of being kicked out of Super League.
However, the Leigh owner stated that if the team were to finish bottom of the league this season, he would request relegation in the interest of sporting fairness, rather than see another club relegated.
Beaumont also confirmed that the Leopards will be announcing a new signing this week, emphasizing the club’s determination to strengthen the squad and compete for a playoff spot, rather than simply avoid relegation.
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