Delight as RFL reaps the rewards of financial transformation

The total income received by the RFL increased to a highest ever figure of £22.8m in 2010, a 4.1 per cent increase on 2009, while payments made to or on behalf of clubs and other member organisations increased for the 10th year in succession and now stands at a record £8.7m.

That figure, which includes fees for participating in the Challenge Cup, the Co-operative Championship, insurance payments and player welfare provision, is up from £1.6m 10 years ago, an increase of 440 per cent.

Given the stricken RFL had net liabilities of £2m after staging the disastrous 2000 World Cup, these latest results – the profit was £107,230 – are further evidence of the manner in which it has transformed its fortunes over the intervening decade.

Wood, who compiled the much-needed Strategic Review in 2001 which formed the basis for change, said: “We were very pleased to report to Council that in 2010 the RFL achieved a record level of turnover at £22.8m.

“This was even more gratifying given that we did not host an international tournament in 2010, as this normally provides a considerable element of the organisation’s activities.

“The RFL’s performance last year saw the governing body build on its achievements of the preceding nine years, a period which represents a golden decade for the sport.

“Over the 10-year period, income coming centrally into the sport across both the RFL and SLE has grown from £18.6m to £48.2m, a 159 per cent increase.

“Payments to clubs have more than doubled in Super League and trebled in the Championships, providing stability and opportunities for growth for all professional clubs in what, over recent times, have been difficult trading conditions.

“The tough economic climate continues to offer challenges for all sections of the game but the RFL remains committed to providing the levels of support needed to ensure this great sport continues to thrive.”

Government funding increased to £7.5m in 2010, up from £4.4m in 2009, which represents a 69 per cent increase.

Due to the Four Nations being staged in the southern hemisphere match income fell to £3.3m from £5.3m but all other games showed a 7.1 per cent increase in revenue in a year which saw both the Carnegie Challenge Cup final and Engage Super League Grand Final played out in front of capacity crowds.

n Castleford Tigers’ pivotal stand-off Rangi Chase must face the RFL’s disciplinary panel this evening after being charged with punching during their 34-30 victory over Bradford.

Opponent Matt Diskin will also appear after the ex-Great Britain hooker was cited for using his knees on Castleford’s Richard Owen in the 29th minute of the same contest.

Wakefield Trinity Wildcats’ first-team coach Paul Broadbent, meanwhile, has apologised to the club’s supporters after a foul-mouthed outburst at a section of fans during Sunday’s 46-6 home loss to St Helens.