Overview

• Places 1–12 for 2026 will be set by IMG club grading, with any 13th and 14th slots to be decided by an independent panel applying additional criteria.
• The seven-member panel is chaired by Lord Jonathan Caine and includes Abi Ekoku, Dermot Power, Tony Sutton, Graeme Sarjeant, Rhodri Jones and Peter Hutton.
• Clubs must register intent by August 26, submit full applications by September 12, and will learn the 2026 lineup on October 16.
• Applicants must evidence 2025 financial performance, provide sustainability forecasts for 2026–2028, and demonstrate the ability to field a competitive team with analysis from the England Performance Unit.
• PA reporting indicates Salford are likely to fall out of contention and that Bradford lead for a spot, with Toulouse, York and London seen as contenders, while details on the Championship and League One makeup are expected this week.