Doncaster Knights make shock decision over Prem Rugby ambitions

This was supposed to be the season Doncaster made a sustained effort on the pitch to push for promotion to Prem Rugby, with the club once again in position off the field to receive approval from the Rugby Football Union to do so.

But with so many horror stories over the last two decades of clubs going to the wall or very nearly going bust chasing the Premiership dream - as their neighbours Rotherham Titans and Leeds Tykes did - and with the team floundering on the pitch and in no position to challenge this season, Doncaster have acted now.

Their club president and co-benefactor Steve Lloyd has always maintained they would not overspend or mortgage the club’s future just for one shot at the Prem.

And now they have made the decision - one they view as proactive - to cease operating as a full-time operation next season.

The club maintains the move does not quell their ambitions to eventually make the top flight, but with the reduced budget for players it will bring, the decision will make that ambition even more challenging.

A club statement read: “Doncaster Knights Rugby Club can confirm that, following a detailed strategic review, the club will adopt a new hybrid operating model ahead of the 2026/27 season.

“The decision, taken by club president Steve Lloyd in consultation with the board and senior rugby leadership, reflects the evolving financial landscape of professional rugby and the club’s long-term commitment to sustainability, competitiveness, and player welfare.

“Under the new model, Doncaster Knights will continue to compete fully and ambitiously in the RFU CHAMP, but with an adjusted approach to how the rugby programme is delivered.

“The rugby budget will operate at a reduced level under the new hybrid model. Players will be supported in pursuing opportunities to supplement or match their current earnings by developing careers and professional pathways alongside their rugby commitments, while continuing to train and compete in a professional environment.

“This reflects the reality of modern professional rugby, where even at “full-time” clubs many players already balance rugby with a second income or career path.

“Player training days and times will be slightly reduced and adjusted, though not significantly. The rugby programme will remain high-quality and performance-led, while offering greater flexibility within the weekly schedule.”

Doncaster also plan to foster closer relationships with existing Prem clubs when it comes to dual-registering players, something they have resisted in the past which has worked against them as rival clubs can have a swathe of Prem players parachuted into their squad on a Thursday to strengthen their team for the Saturday.

The Knights’ statement read: “The adjusted training structure also places Doncaster Knights in a stronger position to work with Premiership clubs with whom we already have positive relationships.

“This will allow the squad to be strengthened through carefully selected loan players, increasing overall squad depth and competition while maintaining a strong Doncaster Knights core and identity.

“The club will also continue to watch with interest developments currently under discussion regarding the expansion and repositioning of Prem Rugby.

“A Yorkshire Prem team is central to the desires of the RFU, PRL and the whole of Yorkshire rugby.

“Doncaster’s ambitions continue unabated to create an investable and sustainable team to play at the highest level of English professional rugby.

“This change represents a proactive step to ensure Doncaster Knights remain a stable, ambitious, and competitive club in a changing professional rugby landscape.

“The club remains fully committed to on-field performance, developing talent, and maintaining strong connections with supporters, partners, and the local community.”