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 face the NRL Telstra Premiership winners, Brisbane Broncos, at the MKM Stadium on Thursday, 19 February.
Match Highlights
This game marks a swift return to the UK for some of Australia's top Ashes players, including Reece Walsh, Kotoni Staggs, and Patrick Carrigan. They will take on Hull KR’s England stars Mikey Lewis, Jez Litten, and Joe Burgess.
Official Statements
"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."
— Nigel Wood, Chair of RL Commercial
Significance for Hull
Hosting this event highlights Hull's rising status in Rugby League and presents a prestigious international fixture for Hull KR after their impressive recent achievements.
Event Details
- Date: Thursday, 19 February 2026
- Venue: MKM Stadium, Hull
- Teams: Hull KR vs Brisbane Broncos
Hull KR’s participation as only the sixth British club in this challenge shows the club’s remarkable development and the growing international appeal of the competition.
Author’s summary: Hull will host the 2026 World Club Challenge, where emerging stars from Australia and England will compete, showcasing the city’s growing prominence in international Rugby League.