Championship club to hold meeting with government as funding issue to be discussed

Toulouse Olympique may be set for some financial issues going into the new Championship season, at least according to reports in France. The French club, who finished as runners-up to Grand Final winners Wakefield Trinity last October, could be hit by some cash flow issues, with potential funding shortages becoming apparent.

La Dépêche is reporting a reduction in the percentage of central funding for rugby league in the city of Toulouse from the City Hall. The report also indicates that cash flows are low due to poor ticket sales, with the club making ends meet via sponsors and what they brand ‘public aid.’

Toulouse have relied on local government to balance the books. However, if that aid is lowered, then there is doubt on whether or not they can return to Super League in 2026. The club finished 13th in last month’s IMG rankings and were just 0.39 points off 12th-place Salford Red Devils.

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And with the Red Devils having current financial issues, Toulouse will feel confident of gaining the necessary points for a top-flight place next year, should they retain their current funding.

There will be a meeting between all of the cities professional sports clubs on Thursday, including Stade Toulousain, who play in the Top 14 in rugby union, and Toulouse FC, who are part of the Ligue 1 competition, the highest tier of French football.

Of course, Toulouse already carry the financial cost of travelling to England for away matches every season, and they also facilitate the away team’s expenses when they come to France, something Super League outfit Catalans Dragons will do in 2025.

They are currently knocking on the door of a return to the top flight, having played their only season in Super League to date back in 2022.

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