Hull KR CEO explains World Club Challenge venue switch

Hull KR CEO Explains World Club Challenge Venue Switch

Hull KR CEO Paul Lakin has explained why the World Club Challenge will take place at the home of their rivals, Hull FC. He emphasized that the priority was always to hold the event in Hull, a city passionate about rugby league, despite the match occurring at the MKM Stadium, the ground of Hull FC.

The Robins will face the Brisbane Broncos in what is considered a showdown between the two best club sides in world rugby league. Lakin stressed that the decision to move the game was driven by financial sense and the expected high demand from fans of both teams.

Initially, there were thoughts of hosting the game at Elland Road, but Craven Park’s capacity was deemed too small. This left MKM Stadium as the only viable option across 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.”

“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.”

Key Points

Summary: Paul Lakin highlights keeping the World Club Challenge in Hull as a priority, moving it for financial viability and to meet high fan demand despite playing at rivals’ stadium.

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

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