SUPER League will do away with the Super 8s system and bring back promotion and relegation, starting with the 2019 season.

The announcement was made today at the conference introducing Super League's new chief executive Robert Elstone.

Elstone, flanked by Saints chairman Eamonn McManus, Wigan's Ian Lenagan and Warrington's Simon Moran, made it clear the importance of improving playing standards on the field, boosting support and a relationship with partners and sponsors and improving its media profile.

The former Everton chief executive spoke of his passion for rugby league at today's media conference in Warrington.

The 54-year-old, who took his new job eight days ago, said: "This is the only job that would have taken me away from Everton.

"I've loved rugby league from the first day I can remember.

"I care passionately about this sport."

Elstone was appointed by the Super League clubs following an extra general meeting last October when they voted Rugby Football League chief executive Nigel Wood off the board.

Wigan owner Ian Lenagan told the press conference the move did not amount to a breakaway.

"We are not in any way breaking away from the RFL," Lenagan said. "The RFL is the governing body for rugby league.

"What we have done is taken responsibility for commercial activity to give the top tier the focus it should have.

"We believe it is very important that the sole focus is on Super League."

Lenagan, who revealed that Leeds are the sole dissenting voice, said the Super League board remains committed to promotion and relegation but St Helens chairman Eammon McManus said there are plans to change the structure of the domestic game from 2019.

"We don't believe the Super 8s work," said McManus.

"We do not believe it is producing the right commercial returns.

"We have to conclude a new structure to put in place for next year."