"There are glimmers of hope that Super League, which was deemed the most important and revolutionary move for rugby league since its inception in 1895, is finally starting to cut through. Attendances are on the rise, IMG's long-term partnership with the sport appears to be improving its profile and the action on the field remains as compelling as ever. That positivity will continue on Thursday evening when Super League breaks new ground in North Yorkshire."
"Bradford's return is also one of great intrigue. The former world champions were arguably the biggest club in the game in the early 2000s when they won four Super League titles, but since their relegation in 2014 they have gone out of business, reformed in the third tier and now worked their way back to the elite."
"Just like in 1996, this year's season begins with a new structure and new feel. After more than a decade running as a 12-team competition, we are back to 14 this year following the elevation of debutants York Knights and the returning Toulouse Olympique, with Bradford Bulls more on them shortly replacing Salford Red Devils after their financial problems finally caught up with them."
Thirty years after Super League's 1996 debut, the competition returns in 2026 with a reworked format and expanded lineup. The league expands from 12 to 14 teams with debutants York Knights, the returning Toulouse Olympique and the promoted Bradford Bulls replacing Salford Red Devils after financial collapse. Attendances are rising, IMG's long-term partnership appears to be enhancing the sport's profile, and on-field action remains compelling. The season opens at York with a home crowd facing defending champions Hull KR, who face the World Club Challenge against Brisbane and a subsequent clash with Leeds in Las Vegas. Bradford's rise follows liquidation, reformation and progression back to the elite.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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