Both Hull Clubs United In Support Of Landmark Super League And NRL Partnership

Hull FC and Hull KR have today confirmed their united support for a proposed strategic partnership between Super League and Australia's National Rugby League (NRL), in what could represent a defining moment for the future of Rugby League in the Northern Hemisphere.

Despite one of the fiercest and most historic rivalries in British sport, the two clubs stand shoulder to shoulder in their belief that a partnership with the NRL, on the right terms, offers an exceptional opportunity to strengthen Super League, secure its long-term future and expand the game's reach nationally and internationally.

Hull KR owner Neil Hudgell together with Hull FC owners Andrew Thirkill and David Hood are united in their support for an agreement that brings together the strengths of both competitions.

Neil Hudgell, owner of Hull KR, said:

"Having worked with the NRL previously, we understand the expertise and opportunities they can bring to our sport.

"The NRL has set the benchmark for Rugby League worldwide, and its achievements in commercial development, broadcasting, fan engagement and international expansion speak for themselves.

"We believe a properly structured partnership offers the potential to transform the commercial strength, visibility and international standing of Rugby League.

"The interests of our two clubs and the wider competition are firmly aligned. We want to see an agreement reached that delivers lasting benefits for everyone involved."

Andrew Thirkill, Chairman of Hull FC, said:

"Rugby League is a wonderful sport with passionate supporters, proud traditions and enormous untapped potential. However, we must recognise that the game needs a stronger commercial foundation if it is to prosper.

"The NRL, under the leadership of Peter V'landys and the ARLC, has demonstrated extraordinary vision and ambition. Its record broadcast agreements, remarkable audience growth and commercial success are achievements the whole sport can admire.

"We have an opportunity to combine that expertise and proven leadership with the heritage, passion and potential of Super League, creating something significantly more valuable than either competition could achieve independently.

"A successful partnership should benefit both competitions, opening new markets, attracting investment and sponsors and building a truly international future for Rugby League.

"This is not just about growing our audiences but collaborating closely with the hugely successful NRL eco-system and creating a sustainable future for generations to come."

A united message from East and West Hull

Hull is one of the great Rugby League cities of the world. Our two clubs have proud histories, passionate supporters and an intense rivalry that will always remain part of the fabric of the sport.

However, the long-term future of Rugby League is more important than any individual club rivalry.

On this issue, Hull FC and Hull KR speak with one voice.

We wholeheartedly support the proposed partnership with the NRL and ARLC and encourage everyone involved to work constructively and urgently towards bringing the agreement to a successful conclusion.

Hull FC and Hull KR.