NORTH WALES CRUSADERS will not take part in the Championship next season – but their owner remains determined to see the club return in 2028.
It brings an end to months of negotiations over a playing licence, with the club only granted a temporary one to finish the season after being relaunched in May.
That followed insolvency under the previous ownership, after which former chairman Jamie El-Kaleh returned.
The Rugby Football League said certain criteria would need to be met in order for full membership to be granted.
El-Kaleh, who had announced plans to rebrand the club as Wales Crusaders, play some matches in Bridgend alongside their Colwyn Bay home and create a country-wide development pathway, became increasingly frustrated by the lack of progress.
Having set a deadline of Wednesday evening for the governing body to give a final decision, he then announced North Wales’ withdrawal in the afternoon.
El-Kaleh said Crusaders had demonstrated their financial viability, with the help of investment from the leading sportswear brand Hummel, but took issue with funds being placed in an escrow and the terms.
“We’ve demonstrated the funds, over three-and-a-half times the value of what was requested, however that wasn’t satisfactory,” said El-Kaleh.
“They asked us to place the funds in an escrow, we confirmed that and even today (Wednesday) that escrow isn’t finalised.
“I entered this process in good faith, wanting to build something, and I believe we created a solid case. Unfortunately the governing body didn’t buy into that vision and support it.
“In 2028, we intend to come back stronger, and plans are underway to try and make that a reality.
“In the short term we are going to proceed with our plans as a club to roll out a reserve team and a female team, and continue our wheelchair team.”
The RFL have been contacted for comment.
