Overview
- PWR, which issued the call Tuesday, invited organisations across England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales to submit non-binding expressions of interest by 30 April.
- The top tier currently has nine English teams, and PWR says this step will screen serious candidates before any formal bids.
- Any new teams would be considered no earlier than the 2027–28 season, with PWR planning follow-up discussions from May.
- Prospective entrants must commit at least £1.2m a year, field 45–55 players, and provide venues and training sites that meet broadcast and competition standards.
- League leaders point to a stronger commercial base, including a multi-year TNT Sports deal and partners such as Gallagher and the British Army, supporting what reporters note would be a first cross-border expansion for an English top flight.