Hull KR's Ambitious World Club Challenge Promise as MKM Stadium Confirmed
The 2026 World Club Challenge is officially set, and Hull KR are preparing to deliver the most spectacular rugby league event Hull has ever experienced. The match will see treble-winning Hull Kingston Rovers face NRL champions Brisbane Broncos at the MKM Stadium on Thursday, February 19 — marking the first time the event will be held in Hull.
A Historic Season for Hull KR
Under coach Willie Peters, the Rovers completed a remarkable 2025 season by capturing the League Leaders’ Shield, the Challenge Cup, and the Super League title. This unprecedented achievement firmly established the club among the elite in world rugby league.
Brisbane Broncos’ Return to Glory
Head coach Michael Maguire guided the Brisbane Broncos to their first title in nineteen years with a dramatic 26–22 victory over the Melbourne Storm in the NRL Grand Final, marking a major comeback for the Australian side.
Event Significance and Local Pride
“With offers from around the world to host the game, we are delighted to bring the Betfred World Club Challenge home to Hull, allowing supporters, not just from the city but the whole region and beyond, the opportunity to see the world’s two best rugby league sides go head-to-head.” — Paul Lakin, Hull KR Chief Executive
Hull KR’s leadership sees the event as a milestone for both the club and the city, spotlighting Hull as a destination for world-class rugby league. February promises to be an extraordinary month, featuring the club’s Super League title defence opener and a Las Vegas showdown dubbed the “Battle of Yorkshire.”
Author’s Summary
Hull KR will host the 2026 World Club Challenge in Hull, uniting champions from both hemispheres in a historic event set to elevate the city’s global sporting profile.