"Clubs will continue to be graded under media giant IMG and Rugby League Commercial's "Reimagining Rugby League" initiative, with the top 12 clubs under that criteria named on Thursday (10:00 BST). Meanwhile a further announcement will be made on two further successful teams on Friday (10:00 BST) based on the decision of a seven-person panel - chaired by Lord Caine."
"Championship League Leaders' Shield winners York Knights certainly look like a club which could compete in Super League. The club have gone from strength to strength in recent years and call the recently-built LNER Community Stadium home. York have never played in Super League before and they were ranked 15th in last year's IMG gradings, but are on an upward trajectory having finished top of the standings at the end of the regular 2025 Championship season."
Super League will expand from 12 to 14 teams for 2026, the first 14-team season since 2014. Clubs will be graded under IMG and Rugby League Commercial's "Reimagining Rugby League" initiative, with the top 12 by that criteria announced on Thursday at 10:00 BST. Two further places will be decided by a seven-person panel chaired by Lord Caine, judging 2025 financial performance, 2026–28 forecasts, and the ability to field a competitive 2026 team. Financially-stricken Salford Red Devils are unlikely to retain their Super League place, opening space for Championship promotions. York Knights finished top of the 2025 Championship, play at the LNER Community Stadium, and have signed Paul Vaughan for 2026.
Read at www.bbc.com
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