@astreizix what are your thoughts on Toulouse promotion to Super League ?
I have mixed feelings.
While it's a good thing for Toulouse, I have a lot of uncertainty about the positive impact their promotion to the SL will have on the entire French RL movement.
Without a a french tv deal and real media coverage, it won't have any impact, which would be desirable, on improving and expanding the base of our sport in France.
The presence of the two French teams in the SL weakens the visibility of French domestic competition; you only have to look at the lack of interest for Super XIII on our French rugby league forum.
Furthermore, I have serious doubts about the long-term economic viability of Toulouse and the Dragons.
In a very uncertain French economic climate, the cost of travel for all the English clubs coming to France, added to the finances of two clubs, and for Toulouse, only half the amount allocated to established Super League clubs, will make their future very complicated.
Afterwards I wish all Dragons, Toulouse and the all RL in France every success