Doncaster RLFC have firmly set their sights on reaching the Super League following a landmark season of growth both on and off the field, culminating in one of the biggest IMG grading surges in rugby league history.

Club Chairman Terry Bramall, Club Doncaster Chief Executive Gavin Baldwin, and Dons CEO Carl Hall recently met with the Rugby Football League (RFL) to gain clarity on the competition structure for 2027 as the club looks to accelerate its rise.

The summit follows an exceptional campaign where Doncaster met their ambitious targets on the pitch while recording the second-highest IMG grading increase in a single season of any club across the entire sport.

Speaking after talks with the governing body, Bramall emphasised that the club’s long-term trajectory is unmistakably pointed toward the top flight.

“I am immensely proud of what Doncaster Rugby League achieved this year,” Bramall said. “Before the season began, everyone at the club sat down together and agreed what we wanted to achieve, and we have delivered it, both on the pitch and off it. That is a credit to our players, our staff and, above all, our supporters and the people of Doncaster.

“Doncaster Rugby League has only one direction of travel, and that is Super League. But before we can put our plans in place, we need the RFL to define the structure of the competition for 2027 and the opportunities that will be open to clubs like ours. Once we have that, we will be ready to act.”

Behind-the-scenes planning underway as Dons await RFL structure confirmation

Planning for the 2027 campaign is already well underway at the Eco-Power Stadium. Internal strategy meetings have taken place across every department—including hospitality, commercial, communications, and community foundations—to build upon the momentum generated this year.

Club officials are poised to roll out their full operational blueprint for 2027 as soon as the RFL formally announces the competition framework and promotion pathways.

With significant backing, soaring IMG metrics, and a clear executive vision, Doncaster are positioning themselves as one of the most ambitious outfits outside the Super League, ready to challenge the elite.

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