Have your say: Should clubs have to pay to compete in the Challenge Cup?
Photo courtesy of Richard Long
We want to know your opinions on clubs having to pay to take part in the 2019 Challenge Cup.
Catalans Dragons owner Bernard Guasch has asked the RFL for clarification on their entry to the Challenge Cup, saying he will refuse to pay the bond requested.
There was controversy ahead of the recent first round draw when it was revealed that Toronto Wolfpack and Toulouse Olympique would not be entering the competition this season, having refused to pay a speculated £700,000 bond.
The bond was requested as insurance against reduced ticket sales should either side reach the final, with last season’s final involving Catalans attracting just over 50,000 at Wembley.
The assumption was that the Dragons would be entering, despite the requests, but it has recently been revealed that they would need to pay a deposit of €550,000 to participate in the Cup next year.
Some fans are totally against clubs paying to compete in the competition, deeming it to be unfair on ‘expansion’ clubs.
But other spectators understand why the Rugby Football League have asked overseas clubs to pay a deposit in case they reach Wembley due to the fewer numbers they will bring.
We want to know what you think…
Should clubs have to pay to compete in the Challenge Cup? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.