RFL set deadline for Salford Red Devils’ interested consortiums

The RFL have set a decision deadline for submissions from those parties interested in taking on a new Salford rugby league side.

The Red Devils were officially wound up on Wednesday morning following a HMRC hearing, with the clubs owners failing to settle debts and secure the funding needed to keep the club afloat.

With the liquidation process underway, all contracts have been cancelled and the RFL has now officially terminated the club’s membership to the league.

However, in the 24 hours that has passed since the verdict emerged, two consortiums have expressed their interest in leading a phoenix Salford club. Chris Irwin is leading the first with the former Salford CEO speaking out on Wednesday evening.

Ex-Red Devils winger Mason Caton-Brown is leading another and the entrepreneur has also spoken out about his intention. Tracy Atiga is linked to a potential third consortium but nothing official has emerged there.

Nevertheless, those interested in taking a professional Salford outfit into 2026 and beyond have been set a deadline of December 17 for a decision.

A statement from the RFL has confirmed that interest has already been expressed. The RFL have also made it clear that RL Cares will be providing support to those impacted by the liquidation.

The statement read: “Further to the RFL Board meeting this morning, the Board have formally terminated the membership of Salford Red Devils.

“The Board discussed the process which will now allow interested parties the opportunity to provide submissions for consideration, with a deadline for decision set for Wednesday 17th December.

“Several parties have already expressed interest, and they will be provided further details of timelines in due course.

“The Board are recognisant of the challenging circumstances the staff and players of Salford Red Devils have found themselves in, and with RL Cares are providing support.”

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