Clubs warned over 'financial abyss' of debt crisis
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The former England coach Tony Smith has welcomed a damning report that claims Super League clubs are on the edge of "a financial abyss".
Sports finance specialist Rob Wilson, from Sheffield Hallam University, has revealed that 11 of the 14 top-flight clubs have combined debts of more than £60m. The new season starts on Friday without a main sponsor and in the last six months Bradford and Salford have both teetered on the brink of bankruptcy.
Smith's employers, Warrington, are in rude health but he accepts there are problems in the game. "I think anybody involved in the game and certainly anybody who earns a living out of the game cares about it. It's been my sport all my life and I want it to be the best it can be."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments