Exclusive: Channel 4’s Super League coverage could come to abrupt end

In 2022 Leeds Rhinos and Warrington Wolves brought in a new era of the sport as they were the first game shown on Channel 4. but it is possible that we could be approaching the last game on the TV network?

This is because their contract is set to expire and they are yet to agree a new one.  And Serious ABout Rugby League can reveal there will be an opportunity for Channel 4 to agree a new deal for 2024, but they will face competition according the the game’s governing body.

So, as we see the play-offs with Channel 4, it is possible we could be seeing the last of the sport on the free-to-air broadcaster as Sky Sports ramp up their plans to take full control of Super League again.

Sadly they won’t be involved in Round 27 as the race for the Betfred Super League play-offs has never reached such a thrilling climax – and that means an unprecedented Friday night of rugby league action on Sky Sports.

With three teams currently level on points at the top of the table, and equally fierce battles for every position in the top six Play-Offs, the sport’s broadcast partners have agreed that all six Round 27 fixtures should be played next Friday, September 22.

Sky Sports announced that they will show Leigh Leopards vs Wigan Warriors. In addition to full match coverage of one game, they will also have cameras and reporters at all fixtures that stand a chance of affecting the shape of the play-offs, meaning viewers won’t miss a thing next Friday night.

Meanwhile RL Commercial are making arrangements to ensure the League Leaders’ Shield can be presented to the winners on Friday night – at Leigh, Salford or St Helens.

Rhodri Jones, the Managing Director of RL Commercial, said: “With only two rounds remaining of this competitive and compelling Betfred Super League season, it is impossible to predict with confidence exactly what will be at stake in Round 27.

“We are grateful to Sky Sports for making special arrangements which allow all six matches to be played on Friday night, meaning no late switches for supporters who are planning to attend in person, and an action-packed last night for viewers.”

With fans across the country loving the coverage on Channel 4 over the last two seasons, the possibility of that option going away will likely be a kick in the teeth for the sport as we approach the IMG era.