Super League shareholders have approved the expansion of the competition to 15 clubs for the 2027 season, the first time the league will feature that number of teams. The decision comes after the league increased from 12 to 14 teams ahead of the 2026 campaign, when Bradford Bulls, York Knights and Toulouse Olympique joined, while Salford Red Devils dropped out following a difficult financial year in 2025.
The league confirmed the move in a statement, saying the decision has been passed to the Rugby Football League (RFL) board. “The RFL Board will now set out criteria and assemble a panel to run the process to judge against it,” the statement said. “A recommendation will be made in due course.”
Super League operated with 12 teams for much of its history, except for spells with 14 teams between 2000, from 2009 to 2014, and last season. The 15-team format has not been tried before at this level.
One likely beneficiary of the expansion is London Broncos, who won the Championship Grand Final and 1895 Cup last season. Despite these achievements, the Broncos only ranked 16th on the yearly grading list, below Championship side Barrow Raiders, and were overlooked when the league expanded to 14 clubs for 2026.
London Broncos now have backing from Australian businessman Grant Wechsel and former Brisbane Broncos star Darren Lockyer. Any investment deal with the Australian National Rugby League (NRL) reportedly would require the Broncos to be part of the Super League’s top flight.
Super League has not yet announced a new title sponsor, resolved broadcast deals, or finalised fixtures for the 2027 season. The league’s board and shareholders remain in discussions on these matters alongside the expansion process.
The 2026 season marked a significant reshuffle in Super League’s makeup. Bradford, York and Toulouse’s promotions came after Salford’s financial issues forced them out. The expansion to 15 teams next season will create the longest top-flight campaign in the league’s history.
The RFL will now establish the criteria for admission and put together a panel to assess applicants for the new spot. No club has been officially confirmed to join as the 15th team, but the London Broncos’ recent performances and backing position them as strong contenders.
The vote to expand reflects ongoing efforts to grow rugby league’s profile and competitiveness. The league has sought to broaden its footprint, including through the inclusion of French side Toulouse and the return of Bradford and York.
Super League’s shareholders agreed to the expansion this week, signalling their commitment to evolving the competition’s structure. The next steps will focus on how the new team will be selected and integrated into the league framework for 2027.
According to BBC Sports.