Bradford Bulls CEO Jason Hirst has revealed that the club will not be altering the pitch dimensions at Odsal Stadium, confirming that the “seven-figure” cost would directly undermine their playing budget.
The famous West Yorkshire venue has long drawn complaints from visiting head coaches over its unique shape and shortened dead-ball areas. However, as the Bulls prepare for their second season back in the top flight, Hirst has made it clear that squad investment takes absolute priority.
Addressing the pitch size, Hirst explained that while the club explored potential modifications, the financial outlay simply could not be justified.
“The fact is that our pitch meets the RFL requirements other than the shortened dead-ball area, which we have special dispensation for, like other West Yorkshire clubs,” Hirst stated in an interview with local paper The Telegraph and Argus that was shared on the club’s website.
“In an ideal world, we’d like the pitch to be wider and longer, but will that happen in this close season? No, it won’t. We explored the opportunity to do it, but the quote was seven figures, and we don’t have a million pounds to spend on that, unless we take that away from the playing staff.”
Super League Grand Final Preview Show and Man of Steel winner debated – Click here to watch the latest episode of the Serious About Rugby League Show!
Jason Hirst prioritises squad building as Bradford Bulls gear up for Super League return
Hirst emphasised that diverting capital towards ground alterations would severely hamper their recruitment drive, pointing to major star signings as proof that funds are better utilised on the field.
Most Read on Serious About Rugby League
“We wouldn’t be signing James Bentley and Ligi Sao, and if we weren’t spending that money on bringing in players, we’d struggle to win a game,” Hirst explained.
“This close season is about strengthening our squad, and it doesn’t mean we’ll have the best one, because we don’t have the money the likes of Wigan do, but we’re confident we’ll have a better season on the field.
“I believe we delivered what a lot of people thought was unrealistic, Super League back in Bradford for 2026, but to move to the next level will be challenging. I’m confident we can do it if we get the people of Bradford behind us.”
