With the Super League season winding down and the Grand Final approaching, one club, the London Broncos, is facing a potentially serious situation. The introduction of IMG’s controversial grading system next month means that only the top 12 clubs in various on and off-field metrics will qualify for Super League status in 2025.
Despite knowing they would be relegated at the end of this year, London opted for a season in Super League with a part-time squad. Surprisingly, they could still avoid finishing at the bottom of the table with two games remaining. However, the club is facing uncertainty about their future and their ability to make a return to Super League in the coming years.
London’s coach, Mike Eccles, is concerned about the direction of the club. With just seven contracted players for 2025 and reduced investment from the owner, David Hughes, Eccles believes London deserves an exemption from relegation due to their progress and contributions to the sport.
Although there is precedent with Catalans Dragons being exempt from relegation in their inaugural season, London is not expected to receive the same treatment. Despite the progress they have made on and off the field, they are unlikely to be back in Super League for years to come.
Eccles emphasizes the importance of London in the sport and their desire to continue building on their recent successes. However, with IMG’s grading system in place, the future of the London Broncos in Super League remains uncertain.
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