Overview

• Clubs voted at Headingley on July 28 with nine in favor, two against and one abstention to increase the Super League from 12 to 14 teams in 2026 under specified conditions.
• The existing 12 spots will be allocated based on clubs’ IMG gradings at the conclusion of the 2025 domestic season, which evaluate on- and off-field performance.
• An independent panel chaired by Lord Jonathan Caine will recommend two additional clubs if their applications meet set criteria, completing the expanded lineup.
• Further details on panel membership, selection criteria and process timing are due to be finalized by the end of 2025 under the league’s new governance framework.
• Championship sides such as Toulouse Olympique, Bradford Bulls, York Knights and London Broncos are among the contenders for the two new places subject to panel approval.