@farnworth-viking I agree, if not Bradford then Huddersfield. Surprised you can move to a sub standard stadium in a totally different town but just carry on under this IMG nonsense.
I recollect that the RFL announced that they will retain the number of SL teams at 14 for 2027; and that the SL will be determined by way of the IMG gradings ie top rated 14 clubs.
If the RFL have any integrity left, they will ensure an independent and transparent assessment of IMG gradings, with the top 14 Clubs comprising SL for 2027. I cannot understand why the RFL cannot announce that now and the gradings publicised at the beginning of October. If that means London staying in the Championship or London being promoted at the expense of Braford or anyone else, so be it.
I am not really sure how Bradford managed to be 10th in the IMG gradings in 2025, above Castleford, Huddersfield, Toulouse and York, but I really can't see them dropping down to 15th this year. Similarly, does anyone really believe that the London backers have not been given a guarantee of a SL place? Snape is a paid up member of the SL owners club, so I guess he will have his supporters in SL/RFL. I think that it will be between Toulouse and York and more than likely the former, despite being the surprise team in 2026.
They should also announce at the same time the structure below SL for 2027. They have had enough time to think about it and learn from the mistakes made this year. You would also hope that they are in touch with the owners of NW Crusaders and any other team facing possible financial meltdown, to be as sure as they can be of the likely number of teams below SL.
My own preferred structure would be have two divisions of 10 teams - Championship and League 1 - with promotion and relegation between the two leagues. I am not sure how many teams make a league feasible from a commercial point of view, but the number of games could be increased with a continuation of the 1895 Cup competition - played immediately before the Challenge Cup final - including all 20/21 teams and a play-off system at the end of the season.
I would also hope to see an announcement of the reintroduction of promotion and relegation between the SL and Championship, but this would require a review of the central funding distribution to ensure that a promoted Championship can readily transition to be competitive in SL. Unlikely to happen!!!
If the 'shed' a French team, then kick out Catalans. Toulouse have been a breath of fresh air, this season, Les Dracs, not so.
But it doesn't work like that in Nigel Wooden-Spoon World.
Paulie xx