JAMIE EL-KALEH has provided an update to supporters on the back of a momentous few weeks for North Wales Crusaders.
Last week, it was announced that in a landmark moment for the club, the Crusaders have officially agreed a deal that will see the Electric Brewery Field Stadium, in Bridgend, becoming their permanent home.
This move secures the Crusaders their own dedicated home ground for the very first time in the club’s history, cementing their long-term future and commitment to the region.
The agreement is subject to final approval of the Rugby Football League (RFL) licence, which will trigger the formal completion of the contract.
In a message to supporters, chairman El-Kaleh said: “In the last few weeks and months, we’ve been working very hard on trying to get this RFL licence for 2027 and, clearly, we need to asses the business needs and forward plan for what that looks like.
“Now, we’re working with the RFL on that. Now, after conversations with the RFL, of course looking at everything, it becomes apparent that some things, frankly, they need to change.
“Is this the news that I want to be giving people? Absolutely not. Also, for me, it’s travelling an awful long way. But, is there a massive upside potential?
“I think there is and I’m excited as to how it can develop.”
The development also sees Crusaders planning to introduce a hybrid model in 2027.
This initiative will see a handful of league games played in South Wales next season, testing the waters to bring elite rugby league to an even wider Welsh audience while maintaining their core base at The Electric Brewery Field.
As for the current campaign, Crusaders are hoping there’ll be a bumper crowd at Colwyn Bay’s Stadiwm Eirias on Sunday for the final home match in 2026.
Following a testing campaign on and off the pitch, Crusaders are using the occasion as a community day, when spectators can take advantage of free tickets for the match-up.
Kick-off for the game will be 3pm and as well as the Championship contest, there will be a masters festival, wheelchair rugby league, live music and the end of season awards.
The possibility of achieving a perfect season has been ended for London Broncos.
The Championship leaders suffered a 34-24 loss at Oldham last time out and they will look to bounce back at home to Halifax Panthers on Sunday.
Other fixtures: Barrow v Whitehaven; Dewsbury v Batley; Doncaster v Sheffield; Hunslet v Rochdale; Oldham v Salford; Widnes v Workington. Today: Goole v Swinton; Newcastle v Midlands.
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