In an unprecedented move for the sport, the Warrington Wolves and the Wigan Warriors are set to write a new chapter in rugby league history by contesting the first Super League match ever staged on Irish soil. The historic showdown will be held at Dublin's Laya Arena – the home ground of Leinster Rugby – on Saturday, 24 April 2027, with the teams kicking off at 5:30 p.m. This landmark event follows the two clubs' recent encounter in Las Vegas in 2025 and marks their return to a venue that has just been transformed into a modern, 20,000‑seat stadium after a €52 million (£44.5 million) redevelopment. The excitement does not stop with the Wolves and Warriors.
The following day, Sunday 25 April, St Helens will travel to the same arena to take on Hull FC, creating a back‑to‑back weekend of top‑flight rugby league in the heart of Ireland’s capital. The Laya Arena, situated in central Dublin, has been upgraded to world‑class standards, making it an ideal stage for showcasing the sport to new audiences and reinforcing the Super League’s ambition to expand beyond its traditional heartland.
While this will be the inaugural Super League fixture in Ireland, the city does have a modest rugby league pedigree. Warrington and Wigan first met on Irish ground at Shelbourne Park back in 1934, and Wigan returned to Dublin in 1995 for a Charity Shield clash against Leeds.
Those early matches laid a foundation that the clubs now hope to build upon with a truly modern, high‑profile event. Warrington Wolves chief executive Karl Fitzpatrick expressed his enthusiasm, describing the Dublin fixture as “another landmark moment for our club, for Super League and for the sport of rugby league.” He highlighted the success of previous overseas ventures in Las Vegas and Paris, noting that Dublin’s reputation as a world‑class sporting city makes it a logical next destination. Fitzpatrick emphasized that the event is about far more than the 80 minutes of play; it is an opportunity to deliver an unforgettable experience for existing supporters, attract fresh fans, and raise the profile of the competition on an international stage. He also praised the loyalty of the Wolves’ fan base, predicting that thousands of Wire supporters will descend on Dublin in the team’s signature primrose and blue colours, further cementing the club’s place in history.
Wigan Warriors CEO Kris Radlinski echoed similar sentiments, calling the Dublin match “an exciting step forward for Wigan Warriors, Warrington Wolves and the sport of rugby league.” He pointed out Dublin’s proven ability to host major sporting events, providing an ideal platform for both clubs and their passionate supporters to demonstrate what makes rugby league unique. Radlinski stressed that the occasion is designed to be inclusive, appealing to lifelong fans as well as newcomers who may be experiencing the sport for the first time. He expressed confidence that the combined energy of Wigan and Warrington fans will generate a vibrant atmosphere and hoped that this event would become a recurring highlight in the sport’s growth narrative, showcasing the benefits of bold, innovative thinking.
The weekend will be broadcast widely. Sky Sports has secured the rights to air every Super League game throughout the season, with two matches each round shown live on the main channel and the remaining fixtures available via Sky Sports+. This comprehensive coverage ensures that fans across the globe can follow the Dublin events in real time, further amplifying the reach of the sport. Beyond the immediate spectacle, the Dublin fixtures represent a strategic push by the Super League to broaden its market.
By taking marquee games to new locations, the league aims to tap into untapped fan bases, secure sponsorship opportunities, and strengthen its commercial footing. The €52 million investment in the Laya Arena reflects Ireland’s commitment to hosting world‑class sporting events, and the partnership with the Super League could open doors for future collaborations, such as youth development programmes, coaching exchanges, and community outreach initiatives.
For supporters planning to attend, tickets will be sold through the official Super League portal, with a range of pricing options to accommodate families, groups, and international visitors. Travel operators are already promoting package deals that combine match tickets with accommodation and transport, making it easier for fans from the UK and mainland Europe to experience Dublin’s vibrant culture alongside the rugby league action. In summary, the upcoming matches in Dublin are set to be more than just games; they are a statement of intent from the Super League, its clubs, and the host city. By delivering high‑quality sport in a state‑of‑the‑art venue, the league hopes to inspire a new generation of fans, showcase the excitement of rugby league to a broader audience, and lay the groundwork for future international fixtures.
The anticipation is building, and as the date approaches, both clubs and their supporters are gearing up for what promises to be a historic and unforgettable weekend in the Emerald Isle.