Bradford Bulls have confirmed the club’s decision to withdraw its legal challenge of the points deduction imposed earlier this year.
A spokesperson for the board of directors has made the following statement: “As part of our last press release on the matter, the directors indicated the club would only proceed with legal action in the event it would be of potential benefit to the Bulls.
“With a heavy heart and a degree of reluctance the board have therefore taken the decision not to pursue any legal challenge to the points deduction imposed earlier this season.
“For the record, the original appeal against the points deduction was correct and amongst other factors, was as a result of the Rugby Football League’s policy and procedure being flawed.
“Following the hearing by the Sporting Sanction Appeal Panel, we felt the decision was legally incorrect and all the advice from our legal advisors confirmed this.
“In fact, our appeal has not only endorsed the review of the insolvency policy currently being undertaken by the RFL, but has expedited it – which can only benefit the sport as a whole.
“A number of additional key factors have also influenced this decision. It is important we now focus firmly on the future in order to return Bradford Bulls back to its rightful place among rugby league’s elite. We will not achieve this by looking back and investing further in the past.
“We are aggrieved at the position the club finds itself in recognises this was brought about as a result of the actions of previous owners and stakeholders.
“Regardless of who owned what and when we are mindful of the strength of feeling in the rugby league community about us challenging the points deduction however we now feel it is time to move forward.
“More importantly, the board feel our supporters need closure on what has been, for them, a horrible part of the club’s history, allowing us to focus on the future.
“The club would like to place on record its thanks for the considerable support it has received during these difficult times especially from our legal advisors.
“The current board, the chairman and his fellow directors wish the club and all associated with it to know of the continued commitment to this great sporting institution and we look forward to continued support from the supporters and sponsors.”
