Salford mayor Paul Dennett has spoken out about the ‘extremely worrying’ situation at Salford Red Devils – the city’s historic rugby league club.
The mayor said he shares concerns of fans about the long-term future of the 150-year-old team, after growing reports of instability at the club.
Salford Red Devils was taken over by a consortium in February who promised to clear its debts and put ‘significant’ investment in.
But last week, the Salford Red Devils supporters’ trust said the club is being ‘left to rot’ and claimed promises have not been delivered, leading to a ‘crisis’.
Salford Red Devils currently sitting bottom of the Betfred Super League and lost 80-6 in a thrashing by Hull last weekend.
Mr Dennett said: “Salford Red Devils is a historic and valued part of this city’s sporting and cultural identity.
“For generations, the club has played a vital role in representing Salford on the national stage and supporting the growth of rugby league in our communities.
“As fans of rugby league and the place rugby has in the fabric of our city, we share the concerns of fans. Recent reports about the increasing financial instability of the club are extremely worrying. They raise concerns about the welfare of staff and players.
“We fundamentally believe that no worker should be left unpaid, and no employee should be placed in a position of uncertainty about their future. This is a basic standard that any professional organisation must meet.”
The city mayor stressed that while the council has supported the club where it can, it is not involved in the internal management of Salford Red Devils.
He said the council’s decision to buy the city’s Community Stadium was aimed at securing the future of the club.
Mr Dennett added: “This includes having previously provided financial support through loan and grant support, promoting sponsorship opportunities, facilitating community partnerships, and acquiring Salford Community Stadium in 2024 to secure a long-term home for elite rugby in the city.
“The council’s published statement of intent at the time made clear that the stadium acquisition was underpinned by a commitment to the long-term sustainability of the Salford Red Devils, as well as the wider economic, social, and community value of the site.
“We have worked constructively with the club across many years to help it navigate challenging periods and safeguard its future in Salford.
“We remain committed to the long-term sustainability of professional rugby league in this city. That includes continuing to work with relevant stakeholders – including the current and any prospective owners – where it is appropriate to do so.”
Last night, the owners of Salford Red Devils made a statement vowing that the club will continue to exist despite the uncertainty over its future.
“We understand the frustration many fans feel. But we want to be clear: Salford Red Devils will not close,” they said.
“We have consistently met wage obligations under difficult conditions and continue to tackle over £3m in inherited debt.
“Your patience and support are deeply appreciated as we work to return SRD to its rightful position in the sport.”
They added: “Chronic underfunding – exacerbated by average attendance figures of approximately 4,000 – has left the club in a state of prolonged financial stress.
“This is not a reflection on any former ownership, but rather a systemic issue we are determined to resolve. Our focus remains firmly on long-term solvency and stability.”
The owners also said they remain open to re-starting discussions with Salford council over buying the stadium, after talks broke down earlier this year.
They also said the club is in the process of ‘establishing a new team to stabilise operations moving forward, alongside securing bridge funding that restores immediate financial stability and lays the foundation for a sustainable future.’
