The Rugby League Council, the sport’s decision-making body which comprises representatives from all three professional competitions and the community game, have today voted in favour of Club Grading – the first recommendation from IMG, the sport’s long term strategic partner, as part of the Reimagining Rugby League strategy.
In a Special General Meeting in Huddersfield, the Yorkshire town where the rebel rugby code was formed as the Northern Union in 1895, the recommendations were supported by a majority of clubs in each of the three professional competitions, and received unanimous support from the community game.
Ten of the 11 Betfred Super League clubs voted in favour, with one absention. (The 12th club, Catalans Dragons, were not entitled to vote).
Eight of the 13 Betfred Championship clubs voted in favour, with one absention. (The 14th club, Toulouse Olympique, were not entitled to vote)
Seven of the 11 Betfred League One clubs voted in favour, with one absention.
The total number of votes in favour was therefore 32, with seven opposed, and three absentions.
Under the weighting system for Council votes which ensures an equal weight for Super League clubs on the one hand, and Championship / League One on the other, there was an 86%-14% result.
The Super League club who abstained from the vote was not Wakefield Trinity or Castleford Tigers as some might expect and many speculated it would be either of the West Yorkshire clubs to vote against or abstain from the IMG vote.
According to those in the meeting it was a surprise but is based on the fact that they need more information.
Huddersfield Giants
“Get rid of the…” – Super League star calls for major Challenge Cup change
Leigh Leopards
Reports: Leigh Leopards exit could lead to huge signing
