Chooks Chairman Unveils Ambitious Strategy to Acquire and Rebrand Super League Club

Chairman of the Sydney Roosters, Nick Politis, has expressed interest in acquiring shares in an English club, contingent on the NRL assuming control of the Super League.

Initially reported by Nine rugby league journalist Michael Chammas on 100% Footy, the Roosters are in discussions with the NRL and various Super League clubs regarding the prospect of joining a European competition operated by the NRL.

Politis has engaged in talks with Salford, a club facing financial difficulties, with intentions of potentially rebranding them as the Manchester Roosters.

“They are keen on the idea of NRL involvement to the extent that they’ve actually talked about the possibility of purchasing a team if the NRL gets involved,” Chammas noted.

“Currently, there’s mention of Salford as a target for the Roosters, while previous discussions have revolved around London and its sale prospects. If the NRL gains control of the Super League, the Roosters could look to rebrand Salford as the Manchester Roosters.”

Meanwhile, Canterbury’s Phil Gould confirmed that the Bulldogs have already started discussions with several clubs about establishing a partnership to enhance player development pathways.

Gould mentioned that an agreement similar to what the Roosters are proposing would contribute to enhancing player recruitment and might offer a superior development system compared to options like the NSW Cup.

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“We need to invest in the UK Super League as it is essential for NRL clubs to actively participate in the growth of that competition,” Gould remarked.

Earlier this month, the NRL indicated it would consider a proposal to acquire a 33 per cent stake in the Super League.

Politis shared with The Sydney Morning Herald that the rebranding effort for Salford as the Manchester Roosters would only succeed with NRL participation.

“Nothing will materialise without the involvement of the NRL,” Politis stated.

“We recognise significant potential for the sport in England and wish to contribute to its growth alongside NRL support. We’ll remain patient and observe the developments ahead.”

Under the proposed agreement, the NRL may need to secure administrative control of the league by 2028.

The NRL has expressed interest in forming a deal only if there is consensus among clubs regarding the takeover.

Sources informed the Herald that the leading UK clubs support the proposed restructure.

One of the models under discussion suggests rebranding the Super League and establishing a 10-team competition spread between two nations, possibly featuring eight clubs from England and two from France.