Terms of London Broncos' Super League exit could open legal can of worms
London Broncos know they're bowing out of Super League this weekend, but whether they do it as the competition's lowest placed side remains to be seen.
Heading into the final round of the season, the Broncos are eleventh, above Hull FC, due to a superior points difference of one point. Simply, if they match or better the Black and Whites' result this weekend, they won't have landed the wooden spoon.
That said, a return to the Championship is inevitable next year with IMG gradings ensuring they will not be one of the top twelve ranked sides next year.
While their placing on the league table might appear immaterial, it could actually result in some complications heading into the off-season, specifically if they don't finish bottom.
It all relates to the nature of their Super League exit, and whether it would be considered to be relegation or demotion.
In all player contracts, there is a clause that stipulates that contracts are null and void if their club is relegated. However, if London avoid finishing bottom, there would be an argument to say the Broncos have been demoted, rather than relegated.
It might seem like a small detail, but in reality, it could open a can of worms if London are replaced in Super League based on anything other the on-field merit. A lot of London's players have now secured clubs elsewhere in 2025 but there are some that have contracts with the Broncos for next season, which could become null and void.
There's an argument to suggest that they could contest the clause in the operational rules, which could then have implications for the club and, potentially, IMG and the governing body.
It might come to nothing, but it's something we're likely to hear more about if London retain eleventh place.
Click here - Get the latest news on our Rugby League Live WhatsApp channel