Details are emerging of a bid to launch a new professional rugby league team in New York for 2019. The bid, inspired by the Toronto Wolfpack and following the same vein of their Canadian cousins, would play in English competition. A mysterious investor has promised £4.3 million in initial funding, with more to come. Like the Wolfpack, the New York consortium is looking to target NRL and Super League stars. The team would be a mixture of big names and up-and-comers, with a clear focus on developing local talent and giving opportunities to American-born players.


Ryan Burroughs @ burroughs21 In 2020 there will be a Pro Rugby League team in New York 😳 so glad the games finally expanding to North America 🏉🏉🏉


The New York bid is the brainchild of English rugby league journalist Ricky Wilby. In just seven months Wilby, who has worked for Catalans Dragons in a variety of roles for the past 12 years, has sourced investment and agreed partnerships with American companies and the New York Tourist board. The bid has agreed deals with an airline brand and the Doubletree Hilton, in New York’s financial district, to cover all flight and accommodation for visiting teams from the UK. At first glance, it is an incredibly exciting and promising venture. The race is on in North America between rugby union and rugby league to crack the market. Union has tried to launch a full-time professional competition, PRO Rugby, but it failed after just one season. The 13-man code is taking a different strategic approach. If the New York franchise is given the green light and if successful, like the Wolfpack has been in its first season, the potential is massive. “Toronto being accepted has given the game over here [in the UK] a big shot in the arm,” Wilby said. “We looked at their model and there’s certain aspects that we could improve. We wanted to base our team in New York and give, not only players, but fans an experience. We want to bring rugby league to a massive sports market.”