Hull to host 2026 Betfred World Club Challenge

Hull has been confirmed as the host city for the 2026 Betfred World Club Challenge. The 2025 Betfred Super League champions, Hull KR, will compete against the NRL Telstra Premiership winners, Brisbane Broncos, at the MKM Stadium on Thursday, 19 February.

Match Highlights

The game will feature some of Australia's Ashes stars, including Reece Walsh, Kotoni Staggs, and Patrick Carrigan, who will face off against Hull KR's English trio: Mikey Lewis, Jez Litten, and Joe Burgess.

Official Statement

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 of the Event

First time the World Club Challenge will be played in Hull.
Hull KR is the sixth British club to participate in the competition.
Brisbane Broncos will appear in Hull for the first time, continuing their strong international Rugby League involvement.

This event highlights Hull's growing status in Rugby League and the sport's expanding international appeal.

Author's summary: Hull's selection as the 2026 World Club Challenge host marks a milestone for the city and showcases Rugby League's expanding international rivalry between top UK and Australian clubs.

Insider Media — 2025-11-06