In response to a story recently circulated on the status of American rugby league, the IRL has issued the following statement:

The United States Association of Rugby League is the national federation of rugby league in the USA and the sole IRL member for rugby league in that country.

IRL has had no contact with the ‘Commission for Rugby League’. Decisions on the future direction of US rugby league, including staffing of its national teams, remains the responsibility of the legal IRL member.

In June 2022, following an eight-month process, IRL finalised its recommendations for governance reform of USARL.

These recommendations were built on an open consultation in which approximately 30 respondents participated, an examination of multiple US governing bodies’ structures, and fundamental good governance principles.

The national federation accepted these recommendations, paving the way for long-term stability and growth in America built on solid foundations.

This reform is ongoing, with all active clubs and leagues invited to play a constructive role in the process, by participating in USARL competitions in 2023 and, by doing so, gaining constitutional rights to shape USARL leadership and strategic direction.

That opportunity is open to everyone and the IRL encourages all stakeholders who have American rugby league’s best interests at heart to participate in the reform.