Hull Kingston Rovers are currently dominating the professional Rugby Football League, securing the number one position in the 2025 rankings. The team achieved an impressive score of 17.85 out of a possible 20 points, representing the highest mark attained by any club since the grading system began in 2023.
A Remarkable Ascent for the Robins
This achievement follows a stellar season for Hull KR, which included victories in the Challenge Cup and League Leaders’ Shield, culminating in a triumphant win against Wigan in the Super League Grand Final. The Robins have demonstrated notable improvement, climbing from sixth place in the initial 2023 rankings to fifth last season, and now to the undisputed top spot.
The Top Tier: League Standings
the latest rankings showcase a competitive landscape within the Rugby Football League. Leeds currently holds the second position with a score of 17.28, while St Helens, the highest-ranked team from the previous year, now occupies third place with 16.74 points. Wigan, despite reaching their third consecutive Grand Final, has dropped to fourth with a score of 16.37.
Here’s a look at the Grade A clubs completing the top rankings:
| Rank | Club | Score |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hull KR | 17.85 |
| 2 | Leeds | 17.28 |
| 3 | st Helens | 16.74 |
| 4 | Wigan | 16.37 |
| 5 | Leigh | 16.33 |
| 6 | Warrington | 16.26 |
| 7 | Catalans | 16.11 |
| 8 | Wakefield | 15.47 |
| 9 | Hull FC | 15.06 |
Hull FC has also demonstrated ample growth, regaining its Grade A status after moving up from 10th position in the previous rankings.In addition, Bradford, Castleford, and Huddersfield complete the top twelve. Toulouse, winners of the Championship Grand Final, secured the thirteenth spot, followed by York, the League Leaders’ Shield winners from the second tier.
Financial Concerns and Team Status
Several clubs are currently facing financial scrutiny. Salford, Featherstone, and Halifax are all subject to petitions from HMRC, which could affect their financial scores and subsequent rankings.Keighley and Newcastle Thunder were not included in the grading due to failing to submit necessary information.
Did You Know? The Rugby Football League’s grading system assesses clubs based on various criteria, including on-field performance, financial stability, and community engagement.
Pro Tip: Staying informed about team finances can indicate a club’s long-term stability and potential for success.
The remaining teams are categorized into Grade B and grade C, with varying degrees of performance and stability. These rankings offer a clear picture of the current state of the Rugby football League as teams prepare for future competition.
Understanding the RFL Grading System
The Rugby Football League’s grading system is an integral part of maintaining standards and promoting the growth of the sport. It provides a framework for assessing clubs across multiple areas, fostering healthy competition, and ensuring long-term sustainability. The system promotes investment in all areas of a club, including its playing squad, coaching staff, facilities, and community outreach programs.
Frequently Asked Questions about Rugby League Rankings
- What is the meaning of the RFL rankings? The rankings determine the status and funding eligibility for clubs within the Rugby Football League.
- How are the RFL rankings calculated? They are based on a combination of on-field performance, financial stability, and community engagement.
- What does it mean to be a ‘Grade A’ club? It signifies a club that meets the highest standards set by the RFL in all assessed areas.
- How often are the RFL rankings updated? The rankings are typically updated annually to reflect the current state of each club.
- What impact do financial issues have on a club’s ranking? Financial instability can negatively impact a club’s score, potentially leading to a lower grade.
What are your thoughts on Hull KR’s rise to the top? Do you believe these rankings accurately reflect the current state of the Rugby Football league?
