Super League Grand Final could leave Old Trafford as new venues express interest

[josie andrews]

Manchester United's Theatre of Dreams has hosted the event since 1998.

Grand Final organisers will meet with prospective new venues as their contract with Old Trafford comes towards its expiration date. The current agreement with the Theatre of Dreams ends at the end of this year, meaning the 2024 Grand Final could be the last to take place at the stadium.

Old Trafford, the home of Manchester United, has been the venue for Super League's showpiece event since its inception in 1998 and has become one of the biggest fixtures in world rugby. However, its position as host is now in some doubt with the current agreement coming to an end.

The Red Devils have recently seen Sir Jim Ratcliffe purchase 25 per cent of the shares in the club and redevelopment of the stadium is expected in the future, which would put the viability of hosting Super League's showcase event in doubt. Rugby League Commercial's Managing Director, Rhodri Jones, insists plans are in place should that come to fruition, but with the current contract coming to an end, talks with alternative venues would take place.

He explained: "There's already a clause in the contract regarding redevelopment because four years ago they thought they were going to rebuild Old Trafford. We always knew what could happen but we didn't know when. I suppose the latest developments there heighten the probability that there are going to be changes to the stadium.

Our history with Old Trafford is extensive. They're keen to keep us, very keen to keep us. We are very much seen as the only other event they will do other than football. That tells us they do like us being there and are keen to keep us.

"Nevertheless, there are other options, potentially in the North East, London and so on. It would be remiss of us to not go and speak to them. But Old Trafford are keen to keep us."

Officials have shown a willingness to relocate other events, particularly Magic Weekend, while the Challenge Cup Final was held at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, as opposed to Wembley, in 2022.

https://www.leeds-live.co.uk/sport/rugb ... d-28475211

[medlocke]

Elland Road

[morley pie eater]

Elland Road

Good shout, Meds! Just 2 mile down the road from us - you could call for a cuppa before the game.

[WarriorWinger]

My back garden (brews are extra)

[ian.birchall]

Manchester City ground, far superior for viewing.

[moto748]

Manchester City ground, far superior for viewing.

Yes, it is. Failing that, anywhere with decent in-goals!

[WarriorWinger]

In the north west for me, going to venues down south is costly and a very long day, much prefer to be within an hours drive or train/tram from where it is held

[endoman]

Needs to be in heartlands and able to get back in an evening on train. Rules out spurs and Newcastle. City is the logical one. Nowhere else big enough.

[Charriots Offiah]

Elland Road

Wash your mouth out Meds.

[medlocke]

Elland Road

Wash your mouth out Meds.