Event details and schedule
The 2026 Betfred Challenge Cup Final is set to take place at Wembley Stadium on Saturday, 30 May. The day will kick off with the Women’s Challenge Cup Final, featuring a competitive match between Wigan Warriors and St Helens, starting at 11:45. Following this, the Men’s Challenge Cup Final will see Wigan Warriors face off against Hull KR at 15:00.
Fans are encouraged to arrive early as hospitality and general admission turnstiles will open at 11:00. This allows ample time for necessary security checks, which will include enhanced searches and bag checks.
Ticketing and entry
Tickets for the finals can be purchased online until 6:30 on the day of the event, with prices starting at £25 for adults and £10 for juniors. After this time, tickets will be available at the North Stand West Ticket Office from 9:45 until half-time of the Men’s Cup Final. Importantly, a match ticket allows entry to both finals, but fans should note that re-entry is not permitted once they have entered the stadium.
Food, drink, and facilities
Wembley Stadium operates as a cashless venue, meaning all transactions must be made via contactless or card payments. Attendees are not permitted to bring their own food or drink into the stadium, but a variety of options will be available inside, including M&S food stores located in the East and West Stands.
For those looking to enjoy the atmosphere before the matches, a fan zone will be open on the East Side of the stadium from 10:00. This area will feature food and drink options, along with music from a resident DJ. Alcohol will be served from 11:00, and the fan zone will close 30 minutes before the Men’s final.
Accessibility and travel information
Wembley Stadium is committed to being an inclusive venue, offering 310 wheelchair user spaces, each with a companion seat. Additional services for guests with access requirements include a shuttle service from Wembley Park Station.
It is important to note that Wembley Central station will be closed on the day of the final, and enhanced train services from Wembley Park will be in operation. Fans planning to drive should pre-book parking through the Wembley Official Parking website, as event day parking is limited.
Stadium regulations and policies
The stadium enforces a restricted bag policy, allowing only one small bag per person, which must not exceed A4 size. Prohibited items include larger bags, alcohol, and any items that may be deemed dangerous or disruptive. Additionally, a zero-tolerance policy is in place for anti-social behaviour, with strict consequences for violations.
Supporters are also reminded that there is a no-street-drinking zone around the stadium on event days, as per local council regulations. Fans are encouraged to enjoy alcoholic beverages in designated areas within the stadium or local licensed establishments.
Attendance expectations
The Rugby Football League (RFL) has estimated that the attendance for this year’s finals could be around 60,000, which is a decrease from the previous year’s figure of 63,278. This year’s event will mark a significant occasion as Hull KR defends their title against the historically successful Wigan Warriors.
As part of the event, Shaun Edwards has been confirmed as the chief guest, adding to the prestige of the day.
