In 2026, the league will have 14 teams for the first time since 2014, after playing with just 12 for the 2015 season.
Clubs have been graded under media giant IMG and Rugby League Commercial’s ‘Reimagining Rugby League’ initiative in the past two seasons, but only 2025’s league structure has been decided by its criteria, which saw London replaced by Wakefield in the top flight for this term.
Under the system, Super League, Championship and League One clubs are assessed based on points calculated by on and off-field performance in order to decide who will make up the top flight, rather than promotion and relegation between the divisions.
McManus added that, with outside influences such as the NRL’s expansion in the southern hemisphere and a potential breakaway league in rugby union, any additions to the Super League have to present a strong investment case to enhance the strength of the league.
“This decision now has to be supported and complemented by a stronger investment case being developed for the game itself,” McManus added.
“Carefully and correctly selected competition growth can only enhance this essential objective.”