Super League’s expansion plan is being condemned by its own clubs as “a recipe for disaster” and a move that appears financially illiterate in the current economic climate. A powerful challenge has emerged to halt the 14-team proposal, driven by a belief that the Rugby Football League (RFL) is ignoring basic economic principles in its pursuit of growth.
The central argument of the dissenting clubs is that the plan violates the first rule of business: ensure revenues cover costs. By adding two more clubs, the league is increasing its operational costs and liabilities. However, with broadcaster Sky Sports providing no extra revenue, the income side of the ledger remains static. To the clubs, this is a clear formula for financial decline.
This perceived lack of financial literacy is compounded by the RFL’s failure to produce a detailed business case. Critics find it “perplexing” that a decision with such profound financial implications was made without a rigorous, data-driven analysis being shared with stakeholders. This has led to accusations that the plan is based on hope rather than sound economic strategy.
The timing of the move is also seen as deeply illogical. With the league’s finances already fragile—highlighted by the struggles of Salford Red Devils—and with the main broadcast deal up for a potentially difficult renegotiation next year, many feel this is precisely the wrong time to be taking such a significant financial gamble.
The clubs now lobbying for a pause are essentially calling for a lesson in financial literacy. They are demanding that any future expansion be underpinned by a credible plan that shows how it will be paid for. Until the RFL can demonstrate that its sums add up, its expansion plan will continue to be seen by many as a dangerous and amateurish miscalculation.