MP wins battle with RFL as Hull KR granted probationary Elite Academy licence

‘GOOD SENSE HAS PREVAILED’: Karl Turner MP

East Hull MP Karl Turner has welcomed news that Hull Kingston Rovers has been awarded a Probationary Elite Academy Licence.

Mr Turner had urged the Rugby Football League to think again after taking away the club’s elite academy status last month, a move which sparked anger among fans across the sport, with Bradford Bulls and Castleford Tigers also missing out.

The new licence for Rovers will initially be for two years, with the club’s progress kept under regular review during that period, following extensive consultation as the RFL extends the timelines within proposals for Academy Licensing from 2022.

“I am chuffed about the news today,” Mr Turner said. “I took on this fight on behalf of the club, the young players, the fans, and everyone who loves rugby league in this city.

“I fought hard for Hull KR during this time by raising it with the Speaker of the House of Commons, The Sports Minister, and having a one to one meeting with the CEO of The RFL, Ralph Rimmer.

“I am glad to see The RFL come to the correct decision after our meeting, and that good sense prevailed.”

He added: “Like my battle with the Government during the first lockdown for extra support for rugby league clubs, I will always champion the valuable role clubs like Hull KR play in our community. So I am sure many fans in East Hull across our city will be glad to hear the news today.

“This wouldn’t have happened without Rugby League fans being loud and proud and backing myself and others to make right on the injustice that had been done to our game.”