Salford Red Devils relegated from Super League

Bad news at the end of a bad twelve months for Salford Red Devils

They will compete outside the Super League for the first time in 17 years following their relegation to the Championship.

Author | Desmond

Salford Red Devils v Catalans Dragons

Plagued by an ongoing financial crisis that saw the club fail to fulfil a game against Wakefield Trinity earlier in August, Salford dropped from 12th to 15th in the IMG gradings, which determine the level clubs compete.

The top 12 clubs according to the rankings were automatically given places in next season’s expanded 14-team top-flight.

Last month, Salford supporters group The 1873 lambasted a decision by the hierarchy to forgo the chance to submit a formal application for one of the two remaining spots in the Super League, which will be selected by a seven-strong panel.

READ MORE | Salford Red Devils’ turbulent season ends in defeat

The IMG placings reflect the clubs that score highest across a range of assessed criteria, including fandom, on-field performance, finance, stadium and community. Salford finished bottom of the Super League last term and, given their financial woes, it was inevitable the club would rank outside the top-12.

Immediate reaction from fans group

The 1873 say they are a group of fans demanding the truth and accountability from the top, to protect 152 years of Salford rugby league history. This was their statement after this announcement.

IMG has confirmed it. Salford are relegated after 17 years in the top flight.

Not because of the fans or the players, but because of broken promises and disgraceful leadership.

The darkest chapter in our modern history.

The 1873 pic.twitter.com/Hw9yB0vVey

— The 1873 (@The1873_) October 16, 2025

Another interesting close season awaits

Salford Red Devils’ relegation has triggered the release of all contracted players and Head Coach Paul Rowley has been linked with a move away from the club to St Helens.

Rowley, who is currently one of the favourites to take the reins at St Helens, was expected to become Salford’s Director of Rugby at the end of the year.

A twice adjourned winding up order is set to be served against the club in a High Court at the end of the month, it can only be hoped that the commitment from some elements of the hierarchy to develop across all areas and lay the groundwork for a successful season in the Championship reflects confidence that the club will not be liquidated.

Immediate next steps

🗣️ "The council are ready to back a reborn Salford Red Devils"

🏉 Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham says he wants to see a Salford side compete in the Championship next season.#SalfordRedDevils #BBCRL

— BBC Sport Manchester (@BBCRMsport) October 16, 2025

The Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, has said he wants to see a Salford side compete in the Championship next season.

As part of an interview with BBC Radio Manchester, Andy Burnham said: “You know, this club is too important, isn’t it? To its fans, but also all of us, anyone who cares about Rugby League as I do.”