Why 8 Championship clubs didn’t get IMG grade for 2026 as twist in system emerges

Is this the beginning of the end for gradings?

By Aaron Bower · Love Rugby League

Published: Thursday, 8 October 2026 at 9:10 AM

Key Things to Know

Eight Championship clubs did not receive IMG grading scores because completing the process became optional.
Only 26 of the 34 professional rugby league clubs participated in the latest grading release.
Keighley Cougars, Halifax Panthers, and North Wales Crusaders are among the clubs that opted out.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Eight Championship clubs did not receive an IMG grading score after the Rugby Football League made participation in the process optional. The RFL released the gradings on Thursday morning, featuring only 26 of the 34 professional clubs because almost half of the Championship sides chose not to submit data.

The clubs opting out include long-time critics Keighley Cougars, financially troubled Halifax Panthers and North Wales Crusaders, Cumbrian sides Workington Town and Whitehaven, as well as Goole Vikings, Swinton Lions, and Dewsbury Rams.

Read the full article on Love Rugby League

Why 8 Championship clubs didn’t get IMG grade for 2026 as twist in system emerges

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