Wigan Warriors are the marginal favourites to get their hands on the Challenge Cup trophy in 2026.
The Warriors have won the competition more than any other side and their 2024 success, which was part of an historic quadruple, was the 21st time they have lifted the cup. And, it seems the bookmakers are tipping them to add another one to that tally come May 30 at Wembley Stadium.
The competition gets underway on January 10 with 34 community teams facing off in the first round of the competition, vying for the right to take on a Championship side in round two.
Super League sides won’t enter the Challenge Cup until round three, which is due to be played over the weekend of February 6-8, with the draw being seeded to ensure top flight clubs will be drawn to play away from home.
However, despite finishing last season empty handed, it’s Wigan who can be found on top of the Betfred odds list with the Cherry and Whites priced at 11/4 to win the cup.
Current holders Hull KR, are at 3/1 to retain their crown after beating Warrington Wolves at the national stadium back in June.
Leeds Rhinos and St Helens are slightly further back at 6/1 and 7/1 respectively, while 2023 winners Leigh Leopards are at 10/1.
Hull FC, whose home kit celebrates the 10th anniversary of their 2016 Wembley win are 10/1, while Wakefield Trinity, who haven’t won the competition since 1963 are at 18/1.
It’s been 40 years since Castleford Tigers last won the cup in 1986, they’re at 33/1, while York Knights are at 50/1 to back up last season’s 1895 Cup win at Wembley by claiming the big prize.
London Broncos are the highest ranked second tier outfit in the odds list at 66/1, the same price attached to newly promoted Bradford Bulls, while Oldham (150/1), Halifax Panthers (200/1) and Widnes Vikings (200/1) are among the best of the rest.
All odds correct at time of writing.
Challenge Cup outright odds
Wigan Warriors – 11/4
Hull KR – 3/1
Leeds Rhinos – 6/1
St Helens – 7/1
Leigh Leopards – 10/1
Warrington Wolves – 11/1
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Hull FC – 12/1
Catalans Dragons – 16/1
Wakefield Trinity – 18/1
Huddersfield Giants – 22/1
Castleford Tigers – 33/1
York Knights – 50/1
London Broncos – 66/1
Bradford Bulls – 66/1
Oldham – 150/1
Featherstone Rovers – 200/1
Halifax Panthers – 200/1
Widnes Vikings – 200/1
Newcastle Thunder – 250/1
Barrow Raiders – 250/1
Batley Bulldogs – 250/1
Doncaster – 250/1
Sheffield Eagles – 250/1
North Wales Crusaders – 250/1
Workington Town – 300/1
Dewsbury Rams – 300/1
Whitehaven – 300/1
Swinton Lions – 300/1
Rochdale Hornets – 300/1
Midlands Hurricanes – 400/1
Hunslet – 500/1
Keighley Cougars – 500/1
Goole Vikings – 500/1
