York Knights, Toulouse Olympique, and Bradford Bulls will debut or return to Super League in 2026, marking the league's first 14-team season since 2014. Salford Red Devils, plagued by financial collapse and liquidation, have been excluded after a turbulent 2025 campaign.

The new format replaces loop fixtures with 13 home games, 13 away matches, and a neutral Magic Weekend at Hill Dickinson Stadium. Hull KR, fresh off a historic 2025 Grand Final win, faces challenges retaining star Mikey Lewis, who signed a five-year deal. Meanwhile, Bradford Bulls aim to revive their legacy under coach Kurt Haggerty, while Toulouse bolstered by Tyler Dupree's loan from Wigan.