Wakefield Trinity top new rugby league gradings as Super League retains 14 clubs

All 14 Super League rugby league clubs will retain their places in the top competition for the 2027 season following the publication of the latest annual gradings, BBC News reported on Thursday. Grand Final winners Wakefield Trinity finished top of the ratings for the first time, according to BBC News, Love Rugby League, and Yorkshire Post. [1][8][10][11]

The rankings are calculated using criteria established by media firm IMG, which evaluates five key areas: fan experience, finance, stadium standards, community engagement, and on-field performance. Wakefield Trinity compete in the top tier of the British rugby league system and play home fixtures at the DIY Kitchen Stadium at Belle Vue. [1][13]

The Guardian reported that Championship winners London Broncos were ranked 16th in the new IMG gradings, placing them behind Barrow Raiders despite London winning the second tier regular season, the 1895 Cup, and the Grand Final. BBC News also reported that the Broncos were ranked 16th on the list below Barrow. However, according to the Guardian, the London Broncos are still expected to join an expanded Super League as its 15th team next season. [1][3]

The Super League is the highest tier of British rugby league, traditionally featuring clubs from Northern England alongside French teams. Promotion and relegation across the competition are governed by the IMG club grading system, which assesses off-field infrastructure and fan engagement alongside team performance. [12][14]