Doncaster RLFC supremo Carl Hall reacts to government's £16m emergency loan for rugby league

The RFL will receive the emergency loan to aid the ongoing battle its clubs face dealing with the extreme financial impact of coronavirus.

Rugby league is the first sport to receive such government funding.

Hall, who is also vice president of the RFL, said: “The funding shows the government understand the major part that rugby league plays in the communities.

“It’s not just a game of rugby league it’s a heartbeat for many, many communities out there. I really take my hat off to the government for their support.

“The news we’ve all had is really pleasing. The sport was in a really difficult position and it wasn’t looking too good but hopefully this can help us with the recovery of it.

“The other thing I genuinely believe could be a blessing for the sport is the World Cup in 2021 – hopefully that will be some more positive news, along with the news from the government, in that it could help accelerate the recovery of the sport.”

All Betfred Super League, Championship and League 1 clubs based in England are eligible to apply for funding.

RFL chief executive Ralph Rimmer said: “The RFL is grateful to the government for understanding and acting on the case for the whole sport. This support enables the sport to survive, to reshape and to be ready to restart in this our 125th year. And to look to a home World Cup next year and a legacy for our communities.”