New arrivals York and Toulouse see a return to a 14-team format that includes former champions Bradford Bulls
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hirty years on from Super League’s debut night in Paris, British rugby league’s premier competition returns on Thursday evening with a bang – and if you look closely enough, there are more themes tying that inaugural season of summer rugby to the 2026 edition than separate it.
Just like in 1996, this year’s season begins with a new structure and new feel. After more than a decade running as a 12-team competition, we are back to 14 this year following the elevation of debutants York Knights and the returning Toulouse Olympique, with Bradford Bulls – more on them shortly – replacing Salford Red Devils after their financial problems finally caught up with them.
There are glimmers of hope that Super League, which was deemed the most important and revolutionary move for rugby league since its inception in 1895, is finally starting to cut through. Attendances are on the rise, IMG’s long-term partnership with the sport appears to be improving its profile and the action on the field remains as compelling as ever.
