Bradford Bulls reveal expected completion date for Odsal loan

Odsal Stadium is synonymous with Rugby League and the Bradford Bulls. The Bulls have played at the ‘Wembley of the North’ since 1934, but in recent years the ground has become more dilapidated and embroiled in a series of ownership disputes.

RFL are the current owners of the land, however they have listed the lease for sale with Knight Frank. A deadline for expressions of interest has been set for 31 January 2024, with Knight Frank declaring a significant interest in the site.

Bradford has previously discussed the impact the pitch has on the club, saying it is a significant factor in reducing their IMG rating. Responding to the IMG rating, the club stated that the pitch was “the biggest impediment to getting our club back into Super League is the absence of a suitable 21st century facility”.

The club had to play away from Odsal between 2019 and 2021 when they moved to ground share with Dewsbury due to the cost of rent at Odsal. However, they have returned to their spiritual home for the 2021 season. Now the club have issued a statement giving an update on the Odsal loan situation.

Bradford Bulls CEO gives Odsal update

Credit: Imago Images

In a statement, Bradford CEO Jason Hirst said the club would only comment on the facts once they were established. He acknowledged that fans could be frustrated by the length of the process, but reiterated that the club would not make a statement without a significant update.

“As part of its open and transparent approach, we the club have, as promised, kept fans and supporters fully informed of developments regarding its bid to secure the lease of the historic Odsal Stadium, home of Bradford Northern/Bulls. since 1934.

“The club has not commented and will not comment just for the sake of it, it will only comment on the facts once they are established.

“Whilst recognizing and appreciating that this is quite a lengthy process that the RFL and Knight Frank are undertaking, the club also recognizes that fans want to be kept regularly informed of developments.”

The deadline for the completion of the established process

Credit: Imago Images

Hurst went on to set the expected timetable for an announcement on Odsal’s rental situation. Hurst expects the RFL to provide an update in mid-summer once all appropriate governance processes have been completed by the RFL.

“As such, having proactively contacted the RFL for an update, the club can now disclose that the RFL confirmed that it is entering the final stages of the process, working with each of the parties from which interest was previously received.

“The RFL’s position remains that the process is complete by mid-summer, and by then all appropriate governance has been undertaken.

“The club thanks its fans and supporters for their patience and will issue further statements as things develop.”

There appears to be no imminent news regarding Bradford’s long-term future at the historic ground.