Toulouse are ready to expand rugby league, insists Trent Robinson

Drew Darbyshire

Sydney Roosters coach Trent Robinson believes his former club Toulouse would benefit Super League on and off the field.

The French club have launched their bid to take Super League’s 12th spot for 2021 following Toronto Wolfpack’s failure to gain re-admission into the top flight.

Robinson spent time as a player at Toulouse before becoming coach of the club after hanging up his boots in 2005.

The former Catalans and now Roosters boss believes Super League will benefit from having Toulouse in the competition next season – if their bid is accepted.

Robinson said: “I’m privileged to support the bid for 2021 of Toulouse Olympique into the Super League competition.

“Toulouse are ready, they’ve been preparing themselves for decades for this through Carlos (Zalduendo) and now Bernard (Sarrazain) and Sylvain (Houles).

“They’ve got a strong foundation in the city of business through airbus and also of sport through Stade Toulousain for whom they will share facilities. They’ve been seen to push the limits in business and in sport across Europe and its time for rugby league to feel the impact of Toulouse.

“They’ve got a good relationship with Catalans Dragons, I know the rivalry will be strong but they also play a style of footy which is exciting to watch and fans love to come and see – both through England and France.

“I’m very proud of my history at Toulouse and I know there is a strong foundation for rugby league in the Super League through Toulouse Olympique. The town, the people and the supporters have soul. They are proud people who love their rugby league and also love their city. I know that will be of benefit to the Super League throughout the future.

“Toulouse Olympique are ready to expand rugby league throughout the northern hemisphere. I’ll always be there to support Toulouse Olympique and I look forward to them building a strong future in the Super League.”

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