Clubs urged to back IMG proposals

Clubs have been urged to back the IMG proposals at this week’s crunch vote, by the board of the Rugby League Commercial body.

RL Commercial was set up to look after the various properties within rugby league following the RFL and Super League’s decision to re-align last year.

The 35 British professional clubs, plus West Wales Raiders, will vote on Wednesday at the John Smith’s Stadium in Huddersfield to decide whether to proceed with the recommendations of IMG.

That includes the implementation of a new grading system, where clubs will be judged upon five pillars worth of criteria to determine whether they are awarded an A, B or C licence.

Provide a platform for future growth

The system, if voted in, would come in to force in time for the 2025 season.

Frank Slevin, the Chair of RL Commercial, said: “As a Board, we are unanimous in offering the Club Grading model our full backing. We considered the model at our meeting earlier this month, before recommending it to the Board of the Rugby Football League for consideration and approval by Wednesday’s meeting of the RFL Council.

“We are all excited by the potential of this first recommendation, which is truly innovative in the changes it would make to the landscape of Rugby League’s competition structure – while ensuring that all clubs can thrive in that structure.

“There is so much positivity around the sport at the moment, with attendances up across the Super League and the Championship especially after an outstanding Easter weekend, new investment in a number of clubs, and new teams and players being attracted to the sport, especially in Women’s, Girls and Wheelchair Rugby League.

“The recommendations coming from the partnership with IMG are an opportunity to further fuel that positivity, and embrace a strategy which could transform the way in which Rugby League is viewed – which we are convinced is necessary for the sport in this country to not only maintain and increase its national and international relevance and credibility, but also to provide a platform for future growth.”

Keighley have been vocal in their opposition to the IMG proposals, and is thought at least one other Championship club will vote against IMG’s proposals.

Outgoing Wakefield chief executive Michael Carter revealed in his programme notes for their game against Leigh that Trinity would also vote against.

They have become the first Super League club to voice opposition to the plans, which have previously been warmly received.

There needs to be a majority of 28 votes (out of 55) for the proposals to pass, and that must include at least four votes from both Super League and Championship/League 1 clubs.

Explained: How the club voting process for IMG’s proposals will work