Rivals Round Delivers Blockbuster Easter Weekend Across Betfred Super League

Betfred Super League’s highly-anticipated Rivals Round lived up to its billing over the Easter weekend, delivering a compelling mix of sell-out crowds, high-scoring contests and fierce local derby drama throughout the competition.

Across the seven fixtures, attendances surged with multiple venues exceeding five-figure crowds and three sell-outs, underlining the enduring appeal of rugby league’s biggest rivalries. 

The Hull derby (12,325), St Helens vs Wigan Warriors (17,980) and Castleford Tigers vs Wakefield Trinity (9,455) all played out in front of capacity crowds, while Bradford Bulls (14,991), Catalans Dragons (10,259) and Warrington Wolves (11,026) each attracted attendances in excess of 10,000, contributing to a strong aggregate crowd of 80,208 across the round. 

The Easter showpiece once again demonstrated its ability to bring fans through the turnstiles, with several clubs continuing their trend of attracting 10,000-plus audiences. This reinforces the competition’s upward trajectory in 2026, with attendances up 13% from 2025 heading into Round 7.

On the field, Rivals Round delivered in equal measure. Matches were played at high intensity, producing 58 tries and more than 300 points across the weekend. Standout performances included Warrington’s emphatic 42-6 victory over Leigh to go top of the table, and St Helens’ dramatic final nine minutes against Wigan which saw them go from 24-10 down to winning the game 34 - 24.

Rhodri Jones, RL Commercial Managing Director, said:
"Rivals Round is everything that makes our sport special — passion, intensity and communities coming together to support their teams. To see sell-out crowds, strong attendances and such an exciting brand of rugby league on display is hugely encouraging.

“The Easter weekend has always been a key moment in our calendar, and this year it has delivered on every level — from the atmosphere in the stands to the quality on the field. It’s a powerful reflection of the momentum we’re building in 2026 and the continued growth of Super League.”

Rivals Round continues to be one of the standout moments in the Super League calendar, blending tradition, intensity and entertainment. With historic rivalries reignited and new ones continuing to develop, the Easter weekend showcased the very best of the sport — passionate fans, elite athletic performances and unforgettable occasions.

Notes

Betfred Super League Round 7 (Rivals Round) – April 3rd to 5th, 2026

Attendances

Hull KR vs Hull FC – 12,325 (Sold Out)
St Helens vs Wigan Warriors – 17,890 (Sold Out)
Bradford Bulls vs Leeds Rhinos – 14,991
Warrington Wolves vs Leigh Leopards – 11,026
Huddersfield Giants vs York Knights – 4,172
Catalans Dragons vs Toulouse Olympique – 10,259
Castleford Tigers vs Wakefield Trinity – 9,455 (Sold Out)