London Broncos to ‘prove people wrong’ in 2026 as club outline goals after missing Super League selection

London Broncos will be out to ‘prove people wrong’ in 2026 after missing out on a spot in Super League at the hands of York and Toulouse.

The Championship league leaders and Grand Final winners have been selected as the 13th and 14th teams to compete in Super League for 2026, something that was decided by an independent panel chaired by Lord Jonathan Caine.

That news confirmed that London Broncos would not be in Super League next year, something that the club have since announced and reacted to.

Many felt that the Broncos, who were below both York and Toulouse in both league standings and IMG rankings, had a strong case given the addition of Gary Hetherington as their new CEO and the Australian investment headed up by incoming owner Grant Weschel.

Despite that, the independent panel decided not to promote the Broncos, meaning they will play the 2026 season in the second tier.

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London Broncos committed to winning 2026 Championship

Announcing that news themselves, London released a statement to ‘acknowledge’ the RFL decision before outlining their 2026 goals, most of which remain the same.

They said: “Although the Broncos have not been selected for promotion to the Betfred Super League (‘Super League’), the Club remains confident in its vision and long-term ambitions, with the review process only strengthening our commitment to once more reaching the top level of the English game.

“Supported by new investment, a refreshed leadership group, and guidance from leading sports and rugby league consultants, the Broncos are delivering a clear plan for long-term success on and off the pitch.”

Incoming owner Weschel then offered a lengthy statement confirming the ‘natural disappointment’ but explaining that the capital club respected the decision and wuld continue in their efforts to return to Super League.

He said: “The game of Rugby League needs a strong London team, and we will not stop until we return our club to the top level of the game. Darren Lockyer and I are determined people, and today’s decision will serve as strong motivation to drive our success in 2026 and prove people wrong.”

Continuing, he added: “Our goal is to win the Championship, strengthen every area of the organisation, increase our grading points across the board, and ensure that when we do reach Super League, we are ready to compete from day one.”

Darren Lockyer, who is also part of the club’s new ownership group, underlined that goal of winning the Championship before again stating that London ‘deserves a strong and competitive Super League presence’, something the ownership group are committed to.

Owner and co-chair Gary Hetherington added: “The future of London broncos is bright. We know where we’re going and we believe in the path we’re one.

“London will be back at the top in no time.”

A New Chapter⚡

The London Broncos will compete in the Betfred Championship in 2026.

We are building for the future stronger, sharper, and with more promise than ever.

With new leadership, new investment, and a clear vision, we’re on a mission to take London rugby league back… pic.twitter.com/TNynpXlFl2

— London Broncos (@LondonBroncosRL) October 17, 2025