Groups to discuss Championship and League One return

Two groups have been set up to discuss the possible return of the Championship and League One, after a meeting between the clubs.

The first group will look at costs and logistics of playing games behind closed doors. This is following the latest government advice that sports can return behind closed doors for broadcast no earlier than 1st June.

Meanwhile, the second will look at potential revenue opportunities to offset some of the costs.

Both groups will be chaired by the RFL, and are set to meet in the near future.

Ralph Rimmer, the RFL Chief Executive, said: “The meeting gave us the chance to update the clubs, and also for the clubs to share their views with us.

“Playing matches behind closed doors, and before that the return to training that would be necessary, is clearly a complex option for all levels of our sport – and any decisions will have an obvious implication on the structure of the competitions, and relationships between our different competitions.

“Decisions regarding promotion and relegation will be made by the RFL Board.

“Setting up these working groups will give the Betfred Championship and League 1 clubs the opportunities to address those considerations further.

“We also maintain regular dialogue with players and their representatives, and our broadcast and other commercial partners, as we remain focused on finding the best solution for the good of the sport.”