NRL to pour £50m into Super League as most clubs back the deal

Negotiations between the National Rugby League, the Rugby Football League and the owners of the 14 Super League clubs have resulted in a £50 million investment plan spanning five years. The NRL has raised its monetary offer while reducing the equity stake it seeks, gaining the approval of 12 clubs; only Leeds Rhinos and Bradford Bulls have yet to sign on, but they are predicted to follow suit. About £10 million will be contributed each year, with £6-7 million earmarked for the Super League clubs and roughly £2 million for Championship clubs, while the remainder will fund marketing and production costs for matches on DAZN.

Broadcasts will feature three weekly games on one outlet and four on DAZN from 2027, with the NRL covering production expenses. Discussions continue over the extent of the NRL’s control and the future of the London Broncos, who may re-enter the top tier in 2027. Four NRL clubs are also looking to acquire stakes in Super League teams, a process being explored by former Gateshead Thunder and Hull CEO Shane Richardson during his UK fact-finding tour.