Salford's 'Phoenix' club given Championship membership
Former Salford player Mason Caton-Brown's consortium has been chosen by the RFL
The Rugby Football League has granted a new Salford team membership to the Betfred Championship for the 2026 season.
Former Salford player Mason Caton-Brown's consortium has been chosen by the RFL to resurrect the club after Salford Red Devils were wound up earlier this month over an unpaid tax bill.
An RFL statement read: "The Rugby Football League can confirm that Salford RLFC Ltd has been granted RFL Membership approval for a new Salford based team and entry into the 2026 Betfred Championship competition.
"The approval follows a thorough assessment process in which the RFL received three high-quality and extremely well-considered proposals, all focused on ensuring the preservation, continuity and future growth of professional Rugby League in the City of Salford.
"The successful submission from Salford RLFC Ltd demonstrated a clear commitment to sustainable governance, financial responsibility and long-term stability, aligned with the RFL's strategic objectives for the professional game."
Former Salford chief executive Chris Irwin's consortium had also been in contention to take control of the new club, who are scheduled to play their first match of the Championship season on January 16 against Oldham.
Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett said:
"I want to thank the Rugby Football League for carrying out due diligence on prospective new owners at pace. I also want to thank the Salford Community Stadium Manager, Guy Smith, and the Stadium board of directors for ensuring everything required by the RFL was completed quickly and efficiently."
"After a prolonged and deeply challenging period for the club, its supporters and the wider rugby league community, this decision finally allows Salford RLFC to move forward after a turbulent time."
"I look forward to working constructively with the new ownership as they begin the task of rebuilding the club on firmer, more sustainable foundations with a recognition of the responsibility they have to fans and the people of Salford."