Automatic promotion and relegation to and from the Betfred Super League will be axed from next season after clubs rubber-stamped proposals by the game's long-term strategic partner IMG at a vote in Huddersfield today.

Clubs and community bodies voted by a majority of 32 to seven in favour of the proposals, with three clubs abstaining.

The vote means that, from the end of the 2024 season, participation in the game's top flight will be dependent on a range of factors, including attendance, catchment area and facilities, with on-field performance accounting for just one quarter.

The Rugby Football League have revealed the voting split by league.

Ten of the 11 Super League clubs eligible to vote were in favour, with one abstention (Catalans, being a French side, did not have a vote).

Eight of the 13 Championship clubs also backed the plans, with one abstention (French side Toulouse were ineligible).

It is already publicly known that Keighley Cougars and Batley Bulldogs were two of those second-tier sides against the plans.

Seven of the 11 League One clubs voted in favour, with one absention. 

Fan-owned third-tier side Hunslet were known to be opponents of the proposals.

The community game, which had seven votes, unanimously backed the IMG plans.