Hull FC and Hull KR have joined forces to throw their weight behind a potential partnership between Super League and the NRL.
The two Hull clubs are the latest heavyweights to back the proposed alliance, with talks expected to gather pace ahead of the Rugby League World Cup kicking off this Thursday.
Leeds Rhinos and St Helens have also publicly backed the plans, while Leigh Leopards owner Derek Beaumont has voiced opposition to promoting London Broncos as part of any deal, pointing to concerns over fixture scheduling, IMG and the potential commercial benefits.
Wigan Warriors and Warrington Wolves have also been at the forefront of efforts to forge closer ties between the two competitions following their involvement in rugby league’s showcase event in Las Vegas in 2025, the first time Super League joined the NRL in the United States.
Now, Hull KR owner Neil Hudgell and Hull FC chairman Andrew Thirkill have added their voices to the growing calls for a deal, issuing a joint statement outlining their support for a potential partnership.
Hudgell said: “Having worked with the NRL previously, we understand the expertise and opportunities they can bring to our sport.
“The NRL has set the benchmark for rugby league worldwide, and its achievements in commercial development, broadcasting, fan engagement and international expansion speak for themselves.
“We believe a properly structured partnership offers the potential to transform the commercial strength, visibility and international standing of rugby league.
“The interests of our two clubs and the wider competition are firmly aligned. We want to see an agreement reached that delivers lasting benefits for everyone involved.”
Thirkill added: “Rugby league is a wonderful sport with passionate supporters, proud traditions and enormous untapped potential. However, we must recognise that the game needs a stronger commercial foundation if it is to prosper.
“The NRL, under the leadership of Peter V’landys and the ARLC, has demonstrated extraordinary vision and ambition. Its record broadcast agreements, remarkable audience growth and commercial success are achievements the whole sport can admire.
“We have an opportunity to combine that expertise and proven leadership with the heritage, passion and potential of Super League, creating something significantly more valuable than either competition could achieve independently.
“A successful partnership should benefit both competitions, opening new markets, attracting investment and sponsors, and building a truly international future for rugby league.
“This is not just about growing our audiences, but collaborating closely with the hugely successful NRL ecosystem and creating a sustainable future for generations to come.”