Salford are not among the nine clubs that have formally applied to join the proposed 14-team Super League in 2026. Hull FC and Huddersfield have lodged applications, with the other entrants coming from clubs currently in the Championship.

The top 12 places will go automatically to clubs ranked highest under the IMG grading system at the end of the season, with two more places decided by a panel if at least two clubs meet the criteria. Any club outside the top 12 must apply for consideration. Hull FC and Huddersfield have submitted applications as an insurance policy. Salford were 12th at the end of last season, and their standing has worsened on several metrics including performance and finances.

Salford could still be docked points for the heavy 82-0 defeat to St Helens in round one, which would incur another IMG penalty, while they failed to field a team against Wakefield last month citing player welfare concerns. They play what appears likely to be their final match in the top flight against Wakefield on Friday; after that, relegation or winding up could follow, with a phoenix club potentially applying for membership of the Championship next year. Bradford, Toulouse and York are understood to be in pole position for the three top-flight places, while Doncaster, London, Oldham and Widnes are among the other applicants.