Toronto Wolfpack's future in Super League is to be discussed after the Rugby Football League (RFL) criticised the club's decision not to take part in the resumption of the 2020 season.
The Wolfpack announced on Monday that they will withdraw from the remainder of the Super League campaign, which is due to restart on August 2 following the coronavirus-enforced stoppage, and the Challenge Cup.
Expressing dismay at Toronto's decision, a statement from Super League and the RFL read: "Betfred Super League and the RFL are very disappointed to learn that Toronto Wolfpack will not be able to fulfil their obligations to Super League 2020.
"Super League Europe and The RFL have been in regular dialogue with the Wolfpack over the past weeks and months regarding the club's ability to take part in the competition and firm assurances had been received as recently as last Thursday, 16 July.
"The club's decision is especially disappointing given the imminent restart of the season. Our immediate focus is on getting the season back underway on August 2 and meeting the needs of our host broadcaster, Sky Sports.
"A discussion around the longer term consequences and the future of the Wolfpack in Super League will commence shortly."
In explaining their reasoning, the Wolfpack said in a statement: "This decision has not been taken lightly, and in consideration of a range of factors specific to the club as the only transatlantic team in the league.
"The COVID pandemic has presented unexpected and overwhelming financial challenges to the Wolfpack organisation.
"Greatly reduced ticket, sponsorship, merchandise and game day revenue streams have resulted from the loss of all 11 of the team's home Super League games in Toronto.
"The Wolfpack would be left covering significant additional costs simply to complete a season of games in the UK including COVID testing, stadium rentals, medical costs and player pay increases to align with the rest of the league.
"The club fully intend to field a team in the 2021 season, and will be working with Super League Europe and the RFL to understand this process moving into the next season."
