Toronto Wolfpack booted out of Super League after losing crunch vote on their top-flight existence

TORONTO WOLFPACK have been booted out of Super League after losing a crunch vote on their top flight existence.

A meeting of the other 11 club bosses, Super League’s board and the Rugby Football League (RFL) heard the Wolfpack plead its case for staying in after withdrawing for 2020.

But it is understood eight of the 13 votes were against them being allowed back in with one abstention – only Leeds, St Helens, Catalans and the RFL voted yes.

Super League conducted its own report into whether it was commercially worth having a side in Canada – and the answer was a resounding no.

Prospective owner Carlo LiVolsi pleaded his case at today’s summit but his words fell on deaf ears.

Now Super League has a decision over whether to go on with 11 clubs next year or promote another team from the Championship.

Toronto fans pointed to the 10,000 plus crowds they attracted on their way to the top flight after being admitted into League One for 2017.

However, after the pandemic struck, backer David Argyle said he did not have the money to keep Brian McDermott’s men going for the rest of the season.

There was also months of unpaid wages to players – including dual-code superstar Sonny Bill Williams – and a visa drama that saw overseas players forced to leave the UK as theirs expired.

They had played six and lost six in Super League but did defeat Huddersfield in the Challenge Cup in what proved to be their last game.

Today’s decision is seen as a dark day for rugby league but Toronto may be offered a place in the Championship or League One, if they can find a buyer with LiVolsi's offer relying on a Super League return.

In a statement, Toronto said: "Toronto Wolfpack and the investment group had previously submitted an extensive 5-year business plan, including significant input from independent financial advisors. 

"The submission addressed original feedback received from the Super League and member clubs, including improved clarity on what benefits the Wolfpack bring to the League as a whole, as well as detailed plans for the growth of Rugby League in Canada.

"The club shares the obvious disappointment of our players, staff, sponsor and partners, as well as incredible fans, at today’s decision.

"The Wolfpack will now take some time to consider our position and consult further with the current ownership group, led by David Argyle."

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