Hull KR secured a historic 30-24 victory over the Brisbane Broncos in the 2026 World Club Challenge at the MKM Stadium, marking only the sixth time an English club has won the competition since it became a regular fixture in 1987. The win also sees Hull KR become the first club to simultaneously hold the Challenge Cup, League Leaders’ Shield, Super League Grand Final title, and the World Club Challenge, a feat last achieved by Wigan in 2024.
The match saw a dominant first-half performance from Hull KR, establishing an 18-4 lead by halftime through tries from Tom Amone, Elliot Minchella, and Joe Burgess. Minchella’s try was set up by a “threaded kick” from Jez Litten, according to Sky Sports reporting. The Broncos mounted a significant comeback in the second half, narrowing the gap to 30-24 with just four minutes remaining, but Hull KR held on for the win.
Jez Litten, the Hull KR hooker, was named Player of the Match for his performance. Litten, who had been battling illness throughout the week, admitted to having “nightmares about Reece Walsh running at me” in the lead-up to the game, as reported by the BBC. He credited his teammates for their support, particularly in defending against the Brisbane full-back.
The victory came after an uncharacteristic loss for Hull KR against York Knights the previous week, but the team demonstrated their strength, having dominated in 2025 by winning the treble. During the match, Hull KR were forced into a reshuffle when fullback Arthur Mourgue suffered a shoulder injury. This saw Litten move into the halves, Kyle Lawton to hooker, and Mikey Lewis to fullback, demonstrating the team’s adaptability.
Despite a strong performance from Brisbane’s Reece Walsh, who displayed both brilliance and errors, Hull KR’s defense proved too strong. The win positions Hull KR to face Leeds Rhinos in Las Vegas on Saturday, February 28th, according to Sky Sports.
