HULL FC are one of 12 clubs to apply for Super League status for the 2026 season.
With the planned expansion of the top flight from 12 to 14 teams for next season, clubs were given a deadline of today to register an interest in being part of the proposed expansion.
While most of those applying are from the Championship – such as York Knights, London Broncos, Bradford Bulls, Oldham, Widnes Vikings and Toulouse Olympique – some Super League clubs have also outlined their intention to apply.
And, surprisingly, Hull have been one of them with the East Yorkshire side revealing the application is for “reasons of prudence and good housekeeping.”
A statement released on the club’s website says: “The club is confident of returning to a Grade A status when the next grading period arrives in the autumn, however as things stand, Hull FC are currently registered as a Grade B club.
“Therefore the club feels it is prudent to apply for Super League status in 2026, as it is difficult to accurately estimate how other clubs will score when the IMG grades are updated later in the year. Once the IMG gradings are published, it is anticipated that Hull FC will then formally withdraw its application.
“The top twelve clubs under grading at the conclusion of the 2025 domestic season will compete in the 2026 Betfred Super League campaign, alongside two clubs recommended by an independent panel, chaired by Lord Jonathan Caine.”
Hull FC chief executive, Richie Myler, said: “It is important to communicate to our fans that we expect to compete in Super League for 2026 and beyond.”
Hull chairman, Andrew Thirkill, added: “We sincerely thank all our supporters. 2025 has been a year of considerable progress on and off the pitch, and the club will issue a general update with more details at the conclusion of the current Super League season.”
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