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Lockyer learns fate for Broncos' Super League bid
Nicholas Quinlan • October 18th, 2025 12:24 pm
The London Broncos have been unsuccessful in their attempt to be included in the expanded Super League for 2026.
It will mean that the newly purchased side which is led by a consortium featuring Darren Lockyer, will remain in the Championship (the second tier of the English Rugby League pyramid).
This was despite having made a strong push made to the RFL, believing that a London-based side would help grow the game across the nation.
Instead of the Broncos, the York Knights and Toulouse Olympique will feature in the now 14-team Super League competition, having just played each other in the Championship (second-tier) final.
Speaking on the decision to club media, the Brisbane Broncos great was still excited by the opportunity, irrespective of not being added.
“This remains an exciting period for the Club,” said Lockyer.
“The Broncos are building with purpose and clarity, and there is real belief in what can be achieved.
“Our coach and many of our significant player signings for 2026 were committed to this regardless of the Super League decision, and we will work hard together to achieve a new goal of winning the championship in 2026.”
While fellow co-owner and Australian businessman Grant Wechsel, this has only strengthened their resolve to ensure that London has a side in the Super League.
"While we are naturally disappointed not to have been promoted and respect the process the RFL ran, our belief in this project and our direction as a club will not waiver,” he stated.
“The game of Rugby League needs a strong London team, and we will not stop until we return our club to the top level of the game.
"Our goal is to win the Championship, strengthen every area of the organisation, increase our grading points across the board, and ensure that when we do reach Super League, we are ready to compete from day one.”
While they have been unsuccessful in their bid, the Broncos have already made steps to help improve from their 10th-place finish this season.
In the short time since the new ownership has started, they have already recruited Jason Demetriou as coach and NRL players Reagan Campbell-Gillard and Siliva Havili to the team.
