Hull KR CEO explains World Club Challenge venue switch

Hull KR CEO Explains World Club Challenge Venue Change

Hull KR CEO Paul Lakin has explained why next year’s World Club Challenge will be held at the home of their rivals, Hull FC. Despite this unusual choice, Lakin emphasized that keeping the event in Hull was always the main priority for the Super League champions.

The Robins will face the Brisbane Broncos in what is set to be a major rugby league event, hosted at the MKM Stadium, the home ground of Hull FC. Lakin insists the decision is financially sound and meets the high demand expected from fans of all teams involved.

The initial idea to move the match to Elland Road was considered, but Craven Park’s limited capacity made it unfeasible to hold the game there. This left the MKM Stadium as the only suitable venue in the city.

“It was really important for people to try to retain it in the city. It’s a huge rugby league city and it’ll be fantastic for us to keep it in Hull,” said Lakin.
“It was very quickly a no-brainer that we needed to move it. Financial reasons, supply and demand, it’s the biggest domestic game and you want as many people to experience it as possible. The players we have in our side, they want to play on the biggest stage possible.”
“For financial reasons, it (Craven Park) wasn’t viable because we need to support the Broncos coming over here.”

Lakin also expressed no concerns about Hull FC fans filling the MKM Stadium to support the visiting Broncos.

Summary

The World Club Challenge will stay in Hull for financial and capacity reasons, with Hull KR choosing their rivals’ stadium to accommodate the demand and provide a larger stage for this high-profile rugby league event.

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Love Rugby League Love Rugby League — 2025-11-06

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