Halifax Panthers will begin their defence of the Betfred Wheelchair Super League against newcomers Bradford Bulls in the competition’s opening round on Saturday 11 April.
The Panthers had an outstanding 2025 season, completing the treble to take home the League Leaders’ Shield and Super League Grand Final trophy, as well as winning the 2025 Betfred Challenge Cup.
They face Bradford Bulls, who make their competition debut as the league expands to eight teams. The Bulls were selected to fill the eighth position in the elite competition after a robust and objective application process which reflected their ability to sustainably compete.
Edinburgh Giants return for their second season as a Super League side, welcoming Leeds Rhinos in their opening round. The Giants will be looking to improve on their 2025 form as they fight for a place in the 2026 Play-Offs.
Also returning for their second season and fighting for a Play-Off spot are Sheffield Eagles. The Eagles kick off their campaign on the road as they travel to face Wigan Warriors.
Finally, Hull FC take on London Roosters who went undefeated in their 2025 regular season. The Roosters will be looking to capitalise on their 2025 form and make it to the Grand Final once again, leaving this time as victors.
The 2026 Betfred Wheelchair Super League will be comprised of 14 rounds of fixtures where each team will play the other seven home and away.
The season then culminates with the Play-Offs and the 2026 Betfred Wheelchair Super League Grand Final to determine the champions.
Chris Godfrey, the RFL’s National Inclusion Manager, said: “The Wheelchair Rugby League Premier Domestic Competition is this year complete as an 8-team competition.
“The 2026 season is set to be one of the most exciting to date with a great deal of existing and new talent on show.
“The new teams in 2025 will have a full season’s experience competing with the best in the UK meaning tighter, more competitive matches as all nations have a focus to the 2026 Wheelchair RL World Cup.
“Further, due to the continued accelerated growth in participation, we are in a position where clubs are developing and entering divisions that support their continued sustainability.
“By giving more people appropriate spaces to participate, excitingly, many have progressed to the point where two national divisions of 8 (SL and Championship) are further supported by regionalised and development activity.
“This means while 2026 looks exciting on the field, it also looks like a season where growth can be maximised, and more people can access the sport than ever before.”
Betfred Wheelchair Super League 2026 teams:
Bradford Bulls, Edinburgh Giants, Halifax Panthers, Hull FC, Leeds Rhinos, London Roosters, Sheffield Eagles, Wigan Warriors
Betfred Wheelchair Super League 2026 Round One fixtures:
Saturday 11 April
Wigan Warriors v Sheffield Eagles – KO 2:45pm, Robin Park Centre
Bradford Bulls v Halifax Panthers – KO 1:30pm, Sedbergh Centre
Hull FC v London Roosters – KO 2pm, Allam Sports Centre
Edinburgh Giants v Leeds Rhinos – KO 2:30pm, Pleasance Sports Complex