Wigan will face Hull Kingston Rovers (Hull KR) in the Challenge Cup final at Wembley Stadium on Saturday, aiming to avenge their defeat in last year’s Super League Grand Final. Wigan’s CEO, Kris Radlinski, described the previous season’s loss at Old Trafford as a crushing blow, but emphasized the club’s determination to respond with a strong performance in this year’s final.

Radlinski reflected on the frustration of failing to secure any silverware last season, marking the first time under head coach Matt Peet that Wigan did not win a title. “If you were on the coach home from Old Trafford, you’d have thought the world had ended,” he said. However, he stressed that the club’s culture encourages focusing on future challenges, noting that preparation for the upcoming season has been carefully planned with attention to building strong habits.

Hull KR arrive at Wembley on the back of a remarkable rise, highlighted by their recent World Club Challenge victory against the Brisbane Broncos. The final will also be significant for Hull KR’s head coach, Willie Peters, for whom this will be the last Challenge Cup match in charge before he departs at the end of 2026 to become the inaugural head coach of the PNG Chiefs in the NRL.

While Wigan is determined to win, Radlinski acknowledged the strength of their opponents. He praised Hull KR’s journey and competitive experience, particularly on their home turf at Craven Park, calling the upcoming game a closely matched contest. “It’s going to be a match of attrition – there’s not much between these teams,” Radlinski said. He noted that such finals often come down to stamina and the ability of key players to rise through fatigue.

Saturday’s encounter will mark the first time Wigan and Hull KR meet in a Challenge Cup final. Wigan will be seeking a record-extending 22nd title, while Hull KR hope to build on their recent success. Radlinski also highlighted the strong professional relationship he shares with Hull KR CEO Paul Lakin, who played a significant role in his own club’s recent trophy successes, including last season’s treble-winning campaign.

Looking ahead to the match, Radlinski anticipates a hard-fought and physically demanding contest that will test both teams’ resilience and character. He noted similarities between the head coaches, Matt Peet and Willie Peters, in their approaches and demeanors, adding that the final promises to be a competitive and closely contested event.