Four Super League Clubs Back NRL Investment Plan After Leigh Owner Breaks Ranks

Four of Super League's biggest clubs have thrown their weight behind the NRL's planned investment in the British game, issuing statements of support on Monday as talks between the two competitions reach a critical stage.

Leeds Rhinos, St Helens, Hull KR and Hull FC all publicly backed the proposed strategic partnership after Leigh Leopards owner Derek Beaumont came out against the deal on social media. Beaumont's objection centers on a key condition: the NRL wants London Broncos promoted into an expanded 15-team Super League from the 2027 season.

Talks between the NRL and Super League have been ongoing for months, with a vote on the partnership now close. The proposal would align the world's top two rugby league competitions under a shared strategic vision.

St Helens chairman Eamonn McManus called the NRL "the premier rugby competition and organisation of either code in the world," arguing a partnership "on the right terms" would be a "significant and much-needed boost" for the sport. He added that Super League must grow its supporter base beyond the northern England towns where it is currently played and reach national and global audiences.

NRL supremo Peter V'Landys has pushed for the 15-team model with London Broncos in the top flight, believing expansion and alignment can replicate the Australian competition's commercial success in the northern hemisphere.