The Super League is about to get a whole lot more exciting! In a thrilling development, York Knights and Toulouse Olympique have been handpicked for promotion, shaking up the rugby league's top flight.
But here's where it gets controversial: the decision to expand the Super League to 14 teams has sparked mixed reactions. With Bradford Bulls already promoted, three Championship teams will ascend to the top flight in 2026, marking a significant shift in the league's dynamics.
York, a phoenix club founded in the early 2000s, is set to make its Super League debut, while Toulouse returns after a brief stint in 2022. The selection process, led by an independent panel, scrutinized financial performance and sustainability, with York and Toulouse impressing in these crucial areas.
York's rise is a remarkable story, having topped the Championship table and lifted the League Leaders' Shield this season. Their journey from Huntington, Bootham Crescent, and Heworth to the purpose-built LNER Stadium showcases a club with ambition and a solid foundation.
Toulouse, founded in 1937, has a rich history, including a forced switch to rugby union during World War Two. They returned to league in 1945 and reached consecutive French Championship finals. In 2005, they became the first French club to reach the Challenge Cup semi-finals, and their recent Championship Grand Final win over York showcases their potential.
The panel's decision was unanimous, with Lord Caine praising the clubs' financial stability and competitiveness. However, the promotion process has left some clubs disappointed, including London Broncos, who have made significant signings and are backed by a new ownership group.
Oldham, Widnes, and Doncaster also missed out, despite impressive signings and performances. The expanded Super League will see these clubs compete in the second tier, while York and Toulouse aim to make their mark in the top flight.
The selection process has sparked debate, with questions about the criteria and the league's future. Will the new additions thrive or struggle? And what does this mean for the league's competitiveness? The 2026 season promises to be a fascinating chapter in rugby league history, with York and Toulouse ready to take on the challenge.
