Hull are set to host the prestigious Betfred World Club Challenge for the first time in their history.

The one off game is between the winners of England’s Betfred Super League, Hull KR, and the champions of Australia’s Telstra Premiership, Brisbane Broncos, in a battle to crown the world’s best rugby league team.

The game will be played on Thursday 19 February 2026, at the 25,000 seater MKM stadium.

The Leader of Hull City Council, Mike Ross, said: “After interest from Qatar, Australia and other UK cities, we are delighted another world-class event is coming to Hull, with the prestigious Betfred World Club Challenge heading to the MKM stadium.

“Just like the recent Hull KR’s homecoming celebrations, when 30,000 people lined the streets to welcome the team home, I’m sure the city will be buzzing with civic pride and excitement to see world-class players and entertainment on our doorstep.

“We look forward to hosting rugby fans from around the country, and of course the Broncos players, staff and supporters travelling from the other side of the world. You’ll be given a very warm and friendly Hull welcome from the greatest rugby league city in the world.”

The fixture was played in 21 consecutive seasons between 2000 and 2020, before the Covid-19 pandemic caused a two year break. It resumed in 2023, but had another break in 2025 as the Penrith Panthers and Wigan had other commitments.

Nigel Wood OBE, Chair of Rugby League Commercial said: “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 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.”