The NRL will consider purchasing a 33 per cent stake in the Super League, but wants complete administrative control from 2028 as it looks to expand the sport globally.
The SMH reports a secret meeting was held in Las Vegas earlier this season between NRL bosses and the owners of Wigan and Warrington, Mike Danson and Simon Moran, where the plan – which includes the control contingency – was discussed.
Wests Tigers boss Shane Richardson and South Sydney CEO Blake Solly are said to be key drivers from the NRL side, with the backing of Andrew Abdo and Peter V’landys, having previously worked at Super League clubs.
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There could be bold changes made to the competition under the NRL’s stewardship including a brand new breakaway league with new clubs, or renaming the league and having 10 teams, eight in England and two in France.
St Helens, Warrington Wolves, Wigan Warriors, Leeds Rhinos, Hull Kingston Rovers and Hull FC are reportedly willing to be part of this revamped competition, with two more English clubs to be determined by certain criteria.
The two French clubs would be Catalans Dragons and a Toulouse side.
At least two NRL teams are said to be interested in buying into a Super League side.
The Super League owners believe the NRL is needed to rescue the struggling league and wants to put a formal proposal together.
From the NRL’s perspective, it doesn’t want to make the first move, but is willing to buy into the competition if the clubs want them to take control.
The report claims the key motivation would be growing the game both in England and internationally rather than financial success – and so the NRL would be willing to sell back its share once the Super League is back on its feet.
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