A groundbreaking Super League fixture is slated to take place in Ireland in 2027, as the Warrington Wolves face off against the Wigan Warriors. The highly anticipated match is scheduled for Saturday, April 24, at the revamped Laya Arena, with a kickoff time of 5:30 pm. This iconic venue, boasting a 20,000-seat capacity, has undergone a substantial €52m (£44.5m) transformation. The following day, St Helens will clash with Hull FC at the same location, marking a pivotal weekend for rugby league in Ireland.
Although this will be the first Super League game held in Ireland, Warrington and Wigan have previously met in Dublin, with their last encounter taking place in 1934 at Shelbourne Park. Wigan also visited the city in 1995 for a Charity Shield fixture against Leeds.
According to Warrington Wolves CEO Karl Fitzpatrick, 'This momentous occasion represents a significant milestone for our club, Super League, and the sport of rugby league as a whole.' Fitzpatrick emphasized that the success of previous international projects, such as those in Las Vegas and Paris, has demonstrated the appetite for bringing the game to new audiences, making Dublin an ideal destination. He added, 'It's an opportunity to create an unforgettable experience for our supporters, attract new fans, and further elevate the profile of Super League beyond its traditional strongholds.' Wigan Warriors CEO Kris Radlinski also expressed his enthusiasm, stating, 'The chance to bring a Super League fixture to Dublin is an exciting step forward for Wigan Warriors, Warrington Wolves, and the sport of rugby league.' Radlinski highlighted Dublin's reputation for hosting major sporting events, providing the perfect platform for two proud clubs and their passionate supporters to showcase the unique aspects of the game.
The upcoming matches are expected to draw large crowds, with thousands of fans anticipated to attend and be a part of history.