Cup Final to be played behind closed doors

The Rugby Football League confirmed that the 2020 Coral Challenge Cup Final will be played behind closed doors for the first time in the competition’s long history.

The latest Government restrictions on public gatherings mean that no spectators will be permitted for the 119th Challenge Cup Final. It had been hoped fans would be able to attend. the showpiece event on 17th October.

They have also announced a date for next year’s Challenge Cup Final. It will be held on 17th July.

Fans who had bought early tickets for the final, can have them transferred to the new date, or get a refund.

Mark Foster, the RFL’s Chief Commercial Officer, said: “In what has been such a difficult year in so many ways, the confirmation that the 2020 Coral Challenge Cup Final will be played behind closed doors is a huge disappointment.

“We hope the announcement of a firm date for the Challenge Cup Final next summer will provide some compensation for Rugby League supporters, with the hope of a return to something like normality, and brighter times ahead.

“Given the impact of the latest announcements from Government regarding social distancing on both the professional and the community game, it is almost certain that there will be implications for the structure of next year’s Challenge Cup.

“Further announcements on that will be made whenever decisions have been made.”