Wembley to host Challenge Cup final double-header in 2023
Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix
The Rugby Football League has confirmed that Wembley will host the men’s and women’s Challenge Cup finals in August 2023.
The Challenge Cup final will return to Wembley next year on August 12.
And the first time, the Women’s Challenge Cup final will be part of the big day at Wembley. The 1895 Cup final and Year 7 Champion Schools will also remain part of rugby league’s showpiece event.
RFL chief commercial officer Mark Foster said: “Wembley Stadium is the Cup final’s spiritual home; a superb venue with plenty of attractions nearby for supporters of all ages, including the iconic Wembley Way.
“And I am delighted that, for the first time in Challenge Cup history, the women’s final will be held at Wembley Stadium.
“It’s already been a hugely significant year for women’s sport in this country, which will continue with the Rugby League World Cup later this year.
“We have been working for some time to get the women’s final on the same day as the men’s; and now to make this happen will give the game a great boost. Our strategic and commercial partners, BBC, IMG and Betfred, are also very much supportive of this new Finals Day.
“We have an excellent working partnership with our hosts. We will work closely with them to give supporters a day to remember.
“Wembley was not available this year of course and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium provided a fantastic alternative. We look forward to seeing rugby league there again one day soon.”
RFL head of growth delighted to see Women’s Challenge Cup final at Wembley
RFL head of growth Thomas Brindle said: “10 years ago the first Women’s Challenge Cup final was played at Crown Flatt, Dewsbury.
“In 2023 the eleventh final will be played at Wembley Stadium. This is a measure of how far the women’s game has come in a relatively short period of time and of how quickly it continues to evolve. This is another big step for the women’s game, and adds even greater incentive among players and teams alike to reach the final.”
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