The RFL have confirmed that grading will determine how Super League will look in 2027.
That decision was made by the RFL Council on Tuesday afternoon with members of the council agreeing to stick with the same system, just with some amendments made. That means clubs will continue to follow framework laid out by IMG if they wish to remain or become Super League clubs next autumn.
The changes made include more emphasis on the performance and finance pillar of the gradings system, with the points previously available for catchment being redistributed. As such, more points will be available for teams on the pitch for clubs, with the higher a team finishes, the more points awarded.
In regards to the finance pillar, the change comes following Salford Red Devils’ liquidation and Featherstone Rovers applying to go into administration.
The Council have also confirmed that non-Super League clubs will have the ability to opt out of the grading process, should they have no desire to climb the ladder and make it to the top flight.
Above everything, sticking with gradings means there will be no promotion/relegation system in place during the campaign with clubs only finding out their status once the Super League and Championship competitions have come to an end.
Members of the Council were also updated by head of match officials Phil Bentham, while RL Commercial managing director Rhodri Jones also spoke.
RFL confirm Super League criteria
An update from the governing body following the meeting at the home of Wakefield Trinity read: “The RFL Council met for the final time in 2025 for its Autumn Council meeting at the home of Wakefield Trinity, the DIY Kitchens Stadium in West Yorkshire.
“Council members agreed Nigel Wood OBE to be able to take the role of Chair.
“A key part of the meeting was an update from interim Chief Executive Officer Abi Ekoku on his first months in the role.
“The members received the latest information from the Laws Committee delivered by Head of Match Officials, Phil Bentham, and was followed by a detailed update from RL Commercial Managing Director Rhodri Jones on the business carried out by RL Commercial in 2025.
“Members were updated on Grading for 2026. It was confirmed grading will determine the participants in the top division for 2027. A few small amendments will also be made; with the points attributed to the Catchment pillar redistributed into the Performance and Finance pillars. Additionally, non-Super League clubs are able to opt out of participating in Grading going forward.”
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