Robins to Face Broncos in 2026 Betfred World Club Challenge
Rugby League Commercial has confirmed that the Betfred World Club Challenge will return in 2026, with Hull KR hosting the Brisbane Broncos at the MKM Stadium. This match will feature the reigning 2025 champions of the Betfred Super League and the NRL’s Telstra Premiership.
The game is scheduled for Thursday, February 19, 2026, bringing some of Australia's Ashes stars, including Reece Walsh, Kotoni Staggs, and Patrick Carrigan, back to the UK. They will compete against Hull KR’s England trio: Mikey Lewis, Jez Litten, and Joe Burgess.
Chairman's Statement on the Event
"We are delighted that Hull KR and Brisbane Broncos have confirmed the return of the Betfred World Club Challenge in 2026."
"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."
Key Facts
- Match date: February 19, 2026
- Venue: MKM Stadium, Hull
- Teams: Hull KR (Betfred Super League 2025 champions) vs Brisbane Broncos (NRL Telstra Premiership 2025 champions)
- Notable Players: Reece Walsh, Kotoni Staggs, Patrick Carrigan (Australia); Mikey Lewis, Jez Litten, Joe Burgess (England)
- Significance: Hull KR will be the sixth British club to compete in this event
This prestigious fixture will renew the celebrated contest between the top British and Australian rugby league champions, highlighting Hull KR’s significant rise in recent seasons.
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