Leeds Rhinos star Rhyse Martin reckons Toulouse Olympique have the potential to become an established Super League force if they are given the right backing.
Sylvain Houles’ men fought bravely but suffered an immediate relegation this season in their debut campaign in Super League. Yet Martin has pointed to the success of Catalans Dragons following their entry into the top flight in 2006.
The Perpignan-based outfit were given a three-year exemption from relegation and have since become a major presence in the British game, winning the Challenge Cup in 2018 and reaching a maiden Grand Final last year.
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Martin, who played against Catalans on Monday, said of Steve McNamara’s side: “It was unreal over there on Monday night.
“They've been doing big things for the sport over there. They've got a top-four team, they were given the opportunity to stay up to build something and I think Toulouse could do something similar. I think some of the French players coming through now are some of the best players in the game and France should be excited because they've got a good product here.
“I just wish other teams, other clubs and even the RFL would back them a little bit more and see the long game rather than the short game. I think what they're doing is really good.”
Martin’s head coach Rohan Smith is similarly supportive of French teams in Super League, having taken his Leeds side to Toulouse and Catalans since arriving at Headingley earlier this season.
France will also host the 2025 Rugby League World Cup and Smith said: “I was fortunate enough to be at London Broncos, Harlequins, when Catalans Dragons were just preparing to come into Super League.
“It was part of a game against Leeds the year before they came into the competition. I think it's great to have them in and it was great to have Toulouse in. It's a shame they're not going to be a part of it next year and I really hope if it is good for the game, it seems to be but I'm new to it, but it seems to be massive down in the south of France.
“It's not the number one sport but it doesn't need to be to have a strong following. I'd be a big advocate of the game expanding and growing if that was best for the game.”
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