Bradford Bulls back in Super League as league expands to 14 teams

IMG's club gradings released on Thursday confirmed a reshuffle of English rugby league's top tier for 2026, with Bradford Bulls returning to the Betfred Super League and a planned expansion of the competition from 12 to 14 teams. The independent rankings placed Hull KR top, while a seven person panel will choose two further clubs to join the expanded division in a decision due on Friday morning.

The grading system, which scores clubs out of a maximum 20 points across five pillars — fandom, finance, stadium, community and on-field performance — awards Grade A to clubs scoring 15 points or more and Grade B to those above a lower threshold. The top 12 clubs on the IMG table automatically secure places in the elite competition and full central funding. Hull KR led the list with 17.85 points, followed by Leeds Rhinos on 17.28 and St Helens on 16.74. Wigan Warriors, Leigh Leopards, Warrington Wolves, Catalans Dragons, Wakefield Trinity, Hull FC, Bradford Bulls, Castleford Tigers and Huddersfield Giants completed the top 12.

Bradford rose from 16th to 10th after improving its score to 14.81, earning a B grade and a place in the 2026 Super League. The club will return to the top flight...