World Club Challenge seemingly confirmed despite the fact Penrith Panthers previously claimed they hadn’t “signed off” on the game against St Helens

Though the World Club Challenge had already been confirmed by NRL Champions Penrith Panthers and Super League Champions St Helens, reports down under last month claimed that Penrith were yet to officially sign off on the fixture.

The game was been pencilled in to be played in Australia as a Super League side heads down under for the first time since Leeds Rhinos did back in 2018 to face the Melbourne Storm.

Meanwhile, Channel 4 will show the game as part of a double header in the first weekend of Super League with the fixture followed up by a clash between Hull KR and Wigan Warriors on February 18th.

However, according to the Daily Telegraph the Panthers were yet to officially sign off on the fixture.

The Panthers wanted at least $100,000 for playing in the match and are still chasing a further $200,000 for winning the NRL last season. The only received $200,000 for their title win which is half of what the prize money was prior to the pandemic.

The Panthers are so keen on this funding due to the fact participation in the World Club Challenge would see them miss out on a lucrative trial match against rivals Parramatta Eels in a rematch of the 2022 Grand Final.

It is unclear what cash incentives St Helens could be offered for playing in the game.

Speaking to the Telegraph, Chief Executive Brian Fletcher said: “We are waiting on details from Andrew Abdo – we haven’t signed off on the game.

“Andrew said we would be playing for prizemoney and we are waiting to hear what it is. We have to hear back from him before we make a decision. It’s in Andrew’s court.

“It will replace our second trial against Parramatta at home. We have to make sure we are replaced financially.”

However, any concerns have now been alleviated now that Penrith have confirmed the sale of tickets. Thus, there should be no more worries about the game.