Eight Super League teams are in action this week, as preparations truly step up with the regular season beginning in just four weekends time.
Of course, competitive action starts the weekend prior to that, as 13 of the 14 sides enter the Challenge Cup. All bar Toulouse are in the draw, and they will all face lower league opposition on the weekend of February 5-7.
That means there are two weekends left to play warm-up fixtures and give players their first run-outs of the year, as clubs look to build fitness and work on combinations in an actual game scenario.
Four matches will take place this weekend, and each team involved is part of the top flight. Three of the fixtures are in aid of a player’s testimonial, as their longevity and service to the sport is celebrated.
In what is the first of two matches on Saturday, Leeds Rhinos will host Bradford Bulls in the first of four confirmed meetings this year.
This game will be played in aid of Cameron Smith’s testimonial, and the Rhinos have confirmed they will be putting out a strong squad in what is their third and final pre-season fixture.
The Bulls secured a victory over Championship side Doncaster earlier in January, and will be looking to produce a similar performance over their closest rivals.
Later in the day, St Helens star Matty Lees will be celebrated as he leads the side out in his testimonial fixture over Castleford Tigers.
Paul Rowley’s side is yet to have a warm-up game, after their planned contest against Swinton Lions was cancelled due to a frozen pitch.
Castleford put out a reserve-level team against Leeds Rhinos over the weekend, and emerged 26-10 victors.
On Sunday, Hull FC veteran Brad Fash will have his testimonial against Huddersfield Giants, who secured their first win of the year on Saturday over York Knights.
FC are yet to play in 2026, but also have a game on February 1 against Wigan Warriors.
That game will be played at Brantingham Park, home of Hull Ionians RUFC.
The final game sees two of last year’s play-off sides face off as Champions Hull KR welcome Wakefield Trinity to Craven Park.
In what is arguably the tie of the round, both Willie Peters and Daryl Powell’s will be wondering how they can top their respective 2025 seasons, with the latter hoping to remain in the finals picture come September.
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Super League pre-season friendlies this weekend
Saturday 24th January:
Leeds Rhinos vs Bradford Bulls – AMT Headingley Stadium – KO: 1:00pm
St Helens vs Castleford Tigers – BrewDog Stadium – KO: 3:00pm
Sunday 25th January:
Hull FC vs Huddersfield Giants – Brantingham Park RUFC – KO: 2:00pm
Hull KR vs Wakefield Trinity – Craven Park – KO: 3:00pm
For updates on every rugby league pre-season friendly to take place before the 2026 season, click here.
