Hull to Host 2026 Betfred World Club Challenge
Hull has been confirmed as the venue for the 2026 Betfred World Club Challenge. The 2025 Betfred Super League champions, Hull KR, will face the NRL Telstra Premiership winners Brisbane Broncos at the MKM Stadium on Thursday, 19 February.
Match Highlights
This game will feature notable Australian players from the Ashes series, including Reece Walsh, Kotoni Staggs, and Patrick Carrigan, who will compete against Hull KR's English trio Mikey Lewis, Jez Litten, and Joe Burgess.
RL Commercial Chair's Comments
Nigel Wood, chair of RL Commercial, said: "Rugby League's Anglo-Australian rivalry takes the sport to a wider audience, as we have seen in the current Ashes series, and it's wonderful to see the World Club Challenge heading for the first time to the great Rugby League city of Hull."
"Hull KR will become only the sixth British club to earn the privilege of playing in the World Club Challenge, a fitting reward for the outstanding progress they have made in recent seasons."
"They could have no more attractive opposition than Brisbane Broncos, one of the most resonant names in Australian sport. The Broncos have graced this fixture a number of times in the past, and have again shown their support of international Rugby League in agreeing to travel north in February 2026 - when they will also be breaking new ground with their first appearance in Hull."
Significance
This event marks a major milestone for Hull KR and highlights the strong international ties in Rugby League, particularly between the UK and Australia.
Author’s summary: Hull KR will host the 2026 World Club Challenge against Brisbane Broncos, showcasing top talent from both sides in a landmark game for the city and international Rugby League.