The commercial branch of the Rugby Football League have announced a new deal with global advisors to further advance the sport.
RL Commercial have confirmed that Deloitte have come on board to work with the recently established Sports Business Group, with the aim being for the sport to kick on following a record-breaking 2025.
A statement from RL Commercial stated that the sport is looking to ‘advance its re-capitalisation project’ with Deloitte deemed the perfect partners to help with that.
RL Commercial announced: “Deloitte will collaborate with RL Commercial to identify, develop, and lead strategic investment opportunities, as part of an incentive to secure a sustainable and prosperous future for the game in the UK and France.”
Rugby league already has global company IMG advising with their most significant contribution being the grading system that defines the make-up of Super League, but Deloitte now offer further consultation with their 30+ years of experience in the sports industry.
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Rugby League lands new advisors to further interests
Explaining the decision to bring Deloitte on board, RL Commercial cited the huge growth that rugby league has had off the field in recent years, adding that the appointment of Deloitte can simply help further those ambitions.
The statement read: “Following significant growth within the sport in recent years, including the recent expansion to 14 teams in the Men’s Betfred Super League, a record breaking 2025 season with more than 1.62 million fans attending matches attendance, strong average broadcast viewership (+52%) and digital growth (+68%), the two commercial teams will pick up on existing conversations already taking place in the market, as well as explore any additional avenues to support the sports growth ambitions and potential.”
Rhodri Jones, RL Commercial Managing Director, said: “Rugby League is strongly positioned for growth and investment, and by appointing trusted experts at Deloitte, we believe this is the right moment to secure the most advantageous outcome for the sport.
“We have been in active discussions with a number of prospective partners in recent months, and bringing Deloitte on board at this stage to provide guidance and explore opportunities in greater detail represents a prudent and professional next step.”
