The Brisbane Firehawks are formally in the race to become the NRL's fourth Queensland club by 2023

Backed by Easts Tigers, the Firehawks have submitted an expression of interest in the league's expansion bid.

Any expansion is expected to be confirmed by July to give the new club 18 months to set up and enter the player market.

The Firehawks are up against rival bids from Redcliffe and a combined Ipswich Jets-Brisbane Bombers consortium.

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