Historic milestone: York Knights secured promotion to Super League for 2026
The Knights, alongside Toulouse Olympique, were chosen by a seven-member independent panel
York Knights have achieved a historic milestone after being officially selected for promotion to the Betfred Super League for the 2026 season, marking the return of top-tier Rugby League to York for the first time in nearly four decades.
The Knights, alongside Toulouse Olympique, were chosen by a seven-member independent panel to join an expanded 14-team Super League, following a competitive application process involving nine clubs.
York’s Return to the Top Flight
The decision means elite Rugby League will once again be played in the Minster City, ending a 40-year absence since York’s last top-division campaign in the 1985–86 winter season.
Founded as a phoenix club in 2002–03, York Knights ensured the continuation of professional Rugby League in the city after the collapse of the previous club, which traced its roots back to 1901.
The club has gone from strength to strength in recent years, enjoying one of its most successful seasons ever in 2025.
The Knights lifted their first trophy at Wembley Stadium, winning the AB Sundecks 1895 Cup in June, before finishing top of the Betfred Championship table. Although they narrowly missed out on the Championship Grand Final title to Toulouse Olympique, their strong performances and overall grading secured them a place in next year’s top flight.
The Selection Process
The decision to promote York and Toulouse came after months of evaluation by the RFL Panel, chaired by Lord Caine, who praised both clubs for their ambition, professionalism, and readiness for Super League.
“After a thorough and robust process, we were pleased to be able to decide that Toulouse Olympique and York Knights will be worthy and deserving additions to the Betfred Super League next season,” said Lord Caine.
“They were 13th and 14th on the Club Gradings, with a significant lead on any of the other applicants from the Betfred Championship… The Panel was unanimous in its final decision.”
The Club Gradings system, developed in partnership with IMG, assesses clubs on factors such as financial sustainability, fandom, stadium facilities, and on-field performance. York’s strong community base, financial health, and improving competitive record were key factors in their successful bid.
Expanding the Super League
The addition of York Knights and Toulouse Olympique allows the Betfred Super League to expand from 12 to 14 teams in 2026.
The 12 automatically qualified clubs based on their grading scores are:
Hull KR, Leeds Rhinos, St Helens, Wigan Warriors, Leigh Leopards, Warrington Wolves, Catalans Dragons, Wakefield Trinity, Hull FC, Bradford Bulls, Castleford Tigers, and Huddersfield Giants.
York’s inclusion in this elite group is seen as a major boost for Rugby League in the region and a testament to the city’s growing sporting reputation.
A New Era for Rugby League in York
The promotion marks a new chapter for the Knights and the city’s fans, who will now welcome some of the sport’s biggest names to the LNER Community Stadium in 2026.
Local supporters and officials have hailed the news as a defining moment for York’s sporting identity and a chance to inspire a new generation of players and fans.