Betfred sponsor Women’s Super League as Grand Final brought forward

Betfred have expanded their rugby league sponsorship by taking the title rights to the Women’s Super League, while its Grand Final has been brought forward to Friday October 11.

The change is to allow players sufficient time to prepare for the Downer World Nines competition in Sydney the following weekend.

It will now be held at the Totally Wicked Stadium in St Helens, a change from the planned Sunday venue which was Headingley in Leeds.

Meanwhile, Betfred become the competition’s first title sponsors on a deal that mirrors their sponsorship of the men’s Super League competition until the end of 2021.

RFL Chief Executive, Ralph Rimmer, said: “This is another significant step in the development of Women’s Rugby League – and specifically the Women’s Super League.

“The women’s game has made amazing progress since the launch of the WSL only two years ago, both in terms of the quality of play on the field and also in its public profile. We’re delighted that Betfred have recognised this and want to get involved. It’s a perfect fit, complementing their long-term support of the Betfred Super League, Championship and League One, and making Grand Final weekend in October an even bigger stage for the game.

“Everyone in Rugby League knows that Betfred are great partners to work with, and one of the most exciting things about this deal for us is their enthusiasm for the women’s game and their determination to extend its profile through their digital platforms.”

Wigan are the defending Women’s Super League champions, while Castleford currently sit top of the table.

The women’s Championship and League One Grand Finals will take place on Saturday October 12 at Manchester’s Etihad Campus prior to the men’s Super League final at Old Trafford.