Salford Executive Quits After Shocking Misogynistic Allegations

The Salford Red Devils’ chief operating officer, Claire Bradbury, has stepped down following explosive allegations of gender discrimination and toxic workplace behavior, deepening the crisis surrounding the embattled rugby league club.

Salford COO Resigns Over Alleged Misogynistic Remarks

Claire Bradbury, who joined the Salford Red Devils in October 2024 after a successful tenure at Sale Sharks, resigned in August 2025, citing an intolerable work environment. In a powerful LinkedIn post, Bradbury revealed shocking details of inappropriate conduct by a senior figure within the club’s ownership.

She claimed that a member of the Salford leadership suggested she engage in a sexual relationship with an official at the Rugby Football League (RFL) to smooth things over during the club’s financial struggles.

Misogynistic, inappropriate language from the ownership suggesting I sleep with an individual at the RFL to ‘help’ the club is unacceptable, Bradbury wrote. I stayed silent at the time because I wanted the club to succeed. But now, I’m speaking out for the integrity of rugby league and for every woman working in sports.

Her bravely publicized allegations have sent shockwaves through the Salford organization and the wider rugby community.

RFL and Salford Red Devils Respond to Scandal

The Rugby Football League swiftly condemned the remarks, with a spokesperson stating:

Any language or suggestion of this nature is deeply offensive and entirely unacceptable. We fully support Claire and all individuals who face discrimination in the sport.

Meanwhile, Salford Red Devils issued a statement confirming an internal investigation:

We condemn all forms of inappropriate behavior and take these allegations extremely seriously. A thorough review is underway, and we will act decisively based on the findings.

Despite this, questions linger over whether the club’s leadership can regain trust, particularly as this scandal follows months of instability.

A Club in Turmoil: Salford’s Struggles Intensify

Bradbury’s resignation is the latest crisis for Salford Red Devils, a club already battling financial woes and on-field disappointments. Recent months have seen:
– A mass departure of senior players due to unpaid wages.
– A humiliating 80-6 loss to Hull FC, one of the worst defeats in club history.
– A hasty takeover by a new consortium, which has yet to stabilize operations.

Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, has publicly expressed concern, stating he is monitoring the situation very closely.

Fan Fury: Protests Mount Against Salford Ownership

The club’s supporters have reacted angrily to the latest scandal. The 1873, one of Salford Red Devils’ most prominent fan groups, cancelled a scheduled meeting with ownership and instead announced a protest march before their next match against Wakefield Trinity.

We call on all rugby league fans to stand with us against discrimination and mismanagement, the group declared.

With dwindling morale and growing dissent, the relationship between the club and its fans is at breaking point.

Gender Equality in Rugby League: A Wider Issue

Bradbury’s experience has reignited vital discussions about gender bias in sports administration. As one of the few high-profile female executives in rugby league, her departure highlights the barriers women still face in the industry.

This should be a wake-up call for the sport, she said. We must ensure that everyone—regardless of gender—feels respected and valued in their profession.

Her case follows similar controversies across sports organizations, raising urgent questions about workplace culture and accountability.

What’s Next for Salford Red Devils?

With Salford Red Devils in crisis on multiple fronts, the immediate future looks uncertain. Key challenges include:
– The outcome of the internal investigation—will those responsible be held accountable?
– Regaining fan and sponsor trust after months of turmoil.
– Addressing financial instability to prevent further player exits.

For now, all eyes remain on Salford as the club faces one of its toughest tests—both on and off the field.