Salford Red Devils’ chief operating officer, Claire Bradbury, has resigned after claiming the club’s owners suggested she should “sleep with” a Rugby Football League (RFL) official to help ease the team’s financial crisis.
Bradbury, appointed in October 2024 as the first female COO in Super League, announced her departure amid ongoing financial turmoil, including unpaid July wages and repeated delays in salary payments.
In a LinkedIn statement, she wrote:
“Misogynistic, inappropriate language from the ownership suggesting I sleep with an individual at the RFL to ‘smooth things over’ is not acceptable. At the time I stayed quiet because I wanted the club to succeed. I’m disappointed in myself that I didn’t stand up to it then, so I’m voicing it now for the integrity and evolution of rugby league and for all women who work in sport.”
Bradbury described persistent operational challenges during her tenure, including lack of essential resources, absence of clear strategy, and decisions made without consultation. She said these conditions made it “impossible” to meet professional standards and protect staff wellbeing.
She also expressed disappointment at being unable to implement her growth strategy and brand plans, warning that the club’s heritage and squad strength were at risk.
“I care deeply for Salford Red Devils, our supporters, and the people I have worked alongside… but I cannot continue in a role where the foundations for professional success are not in place and trust between leadership and staff has been eroded,” she said.
An RFL spokesperson told Sky Sports News:
“Any language and suggestion of this kind is clearly offensive and unacceptable.”
The situation has also impacted fan relations. Supporters’ group The 1873 had planned a protest before Sunday’s Super League match against Wakefield Trinity but have now cancelled a scheduled meeting with the club’s owners “indefinitely” following Bradbury’s allegations.
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