Castleford Tigers Regain Grade A IMG Rating

Castleford Tigers are delighted to have regained Grade A status in the 2026 Club Grading results, securing our place in Super League for 2027.

The Tigers achieved a score of 15.03, climbing three places to eighth in the rankings and returning to Grade A after receiving a score of 14.6 and Grade B status in 2025. The result takes the Club above our 2024 Grade A score of 15 and marks another step forward from the provisional rankings in 2023, when Castleford were placed 13th.

Grading measures clubs across five pillars: Fandom, Finance, Stadium, Community and On-Field Performance. Our return to Grade A recognises the hard work taking place across the Club, alongside continued investment and the backing of our loyal supporters.

There is plenty more to build towards. With further improvements to our facilities and fan experience planned, alongside investment in the playing squad for 2027, the Club remains determined to build on this progress both on and off the field.

Castleford Tigers owner Martin Jepson said:

“When I first invested in the club in November 2023, the provisional rankings placed us 13th and in danger of missing out on a 12 team Super League. My aim was to secure the clubs position in Super League and ensure that much needed investment was provided after years of neglect.

I am delighted that we now stand 8th and have secured a Grade A licence. This grading has been secured by incredible hard work from people at the club ensuring that we hit all our targets. My thanks go to each and every member of staff for their efforts over the last 12 months as it is as much about them as the investment behind it. I also thank our loyal fans for their support through this transitional phase.

We have secured a strong base through our focus and investment. We now need to build upon it and not look backwards.

Performances on the pitch need to improve and we have invested in a stronger squad for 2027 with players of proven quality arriving shortly. We will continue to improve our facilities, enhance the fan experience and support the playing squad in 2027. We don’t intend to stand still and fully intend to build on what has been achieved over the last three years.”