Bradford Bulls Prepare for Super League Return Amid Coldplay Controversy

Published on October 15, 2025 at 06:23 AM
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A Bradford Bulls player celebrates a score against the Castleford Tigers.Credit: SWPIX.COM

BRADFORD Bulls appear poised for promotion to Super League – without even reaching the Championship Grand Final.

Interestingly, Coldplay is playing an unexpected role in the ongoing discussions and disputes over ranking points.

A rugby player from Bradford Bulls, wearing a Betfred Challenge Cup medal, pumps his fist.Bradford Bulls are likely to be promoted back into Super League under rugby league’s IMG grading systemCredit: SWPIX.COM

Tomorrow, the top 12 clubs in rugby league’s strategic partner IMG’s grading scheme, which will determine the top flight for 2026, will be announced.

It is now believed that the once-prominent club – which fell from world champions in 2006 to liquidation in 2017 – will be included, taking the place of the struggling Salford.

Bradford finished 16th in last year's grading, trailing behind 2025's Championship winners Toulouse, who defeated York (14th) and the ambitious London Broncos (15th).

Their promotion will likely ignite protests regarding their run-down Odsal facility, which features only one covered, seated stand and two large concrete terraces.

The latest available 'unaudited financial statements', up until November 2024, report profits of £410,000, at a time when many Super League clubs are reporting significant losses.

A note from chief executive Jason Hirst states: “The company was entitled to exemption from audit under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006. The members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its financial statements for the year in question in accordance with section 476.

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“The directors of the company have chosen not to include a copy of the profit and loss account within the financial statements.”

Concerns have also been raised about temporary run-off areas being disrupted by a stock car track.

Additionally, there are questions regarding the Bulls’ connection to the current Rugby Football League senior executive director, Nigel Wood – the former chairman who only stepped down as a director in March.

On Friday, an independent panel will determine whether Super League will expand to 14 clubs, with Toulouse and London, who have recently appointed Jason Demetiou as coach following their acquisition by Australian millionaire Grant Wechsel and rugby league legend Darren Lockyer, being strong contenders.

Former Kangaroos Test star Reagan Campbell-Gillard and Tonga hooker Siliva Havili have already 'committed' to the 2026 season.

The Odsal Stadium, home to the Bradford Bulls rugby league team, with spectators in the stands, goal posts on the field, and advertising hoardings around the pitch.Fans express concerns regarding the Bull’s Odsal stadiumCredit: SWPIX.COM

Part of IMG’s evaluation includes 0.2 points allocated for social media following, which has led to yet another controversy – involving the multi-million selling band Coldplay.

Three clubs, rumored to be Hull FC, Huddersfield, and St Helens, have reportedly raised concerns about Hull KR claiming a nearly 225 percent increase in their following over the 15 months leading up to October.

The closest increase reported is Leigh’s 36 percent, while half of the top flight records a rise of less than 12 percent.

However, sources indicate that much of this surge can be attributed to Rovers hosting Coldplay concerts in August.

Insiders suggest that targeted advertisements aimed at the band’s audience were effective, as many viewers of the treble winners' platform chose to follow.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current status of Bradford Bulls in regards to Super League promotion?

Bradford Bulls are likely to be promoted to Super League without reaching the Championship Grand Final, as they are expected to replace Salford in the top flight for 2026.

How does Coldplay factor into the ranking points controversy?

Coldplay's concerts, hosted by Hull KR, have significantly increased their social media following, which some clubs have contested, questioning the legitimacy of the reported 225 percent increase.

What are the financial standings of Bradford Bulls?

Bradford Bulls have reported profits of £410,000 in their latest unaudited financial statements, contrasting with many Super League clubs that are facing significant losses.

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