The future of the biggest clubs in the game like Leeds Rhinos, Wigan Warriors, Warrington Wolves, Hull FC, St Helens and the rest of Super League is at a fascinating tipping point.
This is because of IMG’s changes to the sport moving away from the traditional use of relegation and promotion changing to a grading system.
But financially we will see a big development with Sky Sports, Channel 4 and Viaplay’s contracts with the sport expiring with BBC’s set to follow in 2024.
There has yet to be an agreement on a new TV deal with competitors emerging for the rights.
It has been a major talking point and was addressed earlier this year by RL Commercial’s Rhodri Jones.
“Next two to three weeks I would say and then after that we can then develop the calendar four to six weeks hopefully,” he said on BBC Five Live.
“We’ve got multiple broadcasters interested.”
Asked if there will be an increase in broadcast revenue, Jones said: “We’ll have to see where we land.”
“I think on the Broadcast deal, we’ve been so reliant on one number coming from one broadcaster.
“We’re one of very few sports competitions that don’t stream every game.
“I think the mix of the broadcast platform for us going forward is going to look different. So maybe less emphasis on that one number that we get from the main broadcaster and maybe the culmination of the total means that we come out in a better position.”
In a huge surprise twist however, reports from the Daily Mail today have claimed that officials at the RFL are disappointed with the offer from Sky, a £25 million per year contract and TNT Sport have emerged as a potential contender.
Previously known as BT Sport, the newly named TNT Sports are the home of the Champions League in football as well as having rights to Premier League football.
According to the Daily Mail, TNT are now “a big threat” to Sky’s coverage of the sport.
Serious About Rugby League can now reveal that there are a number of interested parties and not just TNT Sports.
Either way, the RFL still have strong relationship with Sky who still value the sport and have been impressed by the figures so far this season.
Expect a decision by the end of July.
