Salford owners accused of suggesting female employee sleep with someone at Rugby Football League to ‘smooth things over’

Published on August 14, 2025 at 02:56 PM
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SALFORD’S owners have been accused of suggesting a female employee sleep with someone at the Rugby Football League to ‘smooth things over.’

Claire Bradbury announced her resignation as chief operating officer on Thursday – as she still awaits July’s salary.

Portrait of Claire Banbury in front of a Sale Sharks logo.
Claire Bradbury delivered a bombshell statement via LinkedIn
Salford Community Stadium exterior.
A serious allegation has been made against Salford’s owners

And in a bombshell statement, she has claimed the ownership made suggestions that she get into bed with someone from the governing body.

She wrote on LinkedIn: “It’s important to share something more personal, as a senior woman in business.

“Misogynistic, inappropriate language from the ownership suggesting I sleep with an individual at the RFL to ‘smooth things over’ is not acceptable.

“At the time I stayed quiet because I wanted the club to succeed.

“I’m disappointed in myself that I didn’t stand up to it then so I’m voicing it now as it should be heard for the integrity and evolution of rugby league , and for all women who work in sport.”

Mrs Bradbury’s resignation is the latest to come under ownership duo Sire Kailahi and Curtis Brown.

A team’s worth of talent has left and boss Paul Rowley is scratching around for people to fill jerseys in Sunday’s clash with Wakefield.

Relegation looms for the Red Devils, if they survive, while a winding up petition brought by HMRC is scheduled to be heard on September 3.

And Mrs Bradbury detailed how conditions have deteriorated since Kailahi and Brown took charge.

She added: “Repeated delays in salary payments, an absence of essential operational tools, and a lack of agreed structure, strategy, or investment have significantly impacted the ability of staff to perform their jobs effectively.

“Despite this, our team continued to show grace and professionalism, working tirelessly for the benefit of the club and its supporters.

“In my opinion, strong leadership in sport requires transparency, respect, understanding of fandom and culture, and a willingness to listen to experienced staff.

“Unfortunately, I have not felt that over recent months.

“This environment — one of uncertainty, inadequate resources, and decisions taken without collaborative consultation — has made it increasingly difficult to protect staff wellbeing and maintain operational standards

“Love for the club, loyalty to fans and professional pride is why the club continues to operate, despite this.

“Whilst funding may yet arrive, my concern is what may have been lost over this time, a decimated squad and a historic club with its soul being ripped out.

“The togetherness of our team, sponsors and supporters is what makes this club special.

“I think it is too important to say nothing. I hope no other club experiences what we have been through this year.”

SunSport has approached Salford for comment.

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