Rugby league derbies and rivalries
The biggest rivalry matches across the NRL and Super League, and when the next one kicks off.
Beyond derbies
Other marquee matches
Beyond local derbies, rugby league has a few annual marquee fixtures that draw casual viewers and big crowds:
- World Club Challenge — reigning NRL champions vs reigning Super League champions, every February
- Challenge Cup Final at Wembley — rugby league's oldest knockout competition, free on BBC
- State of Origin — NSW vs Queensland, three matches each year, the biggest event in Australian rugby league
- Magic Weekend — an entire round of Super League fixtures played at one neutral venue across one weekend
- NRL Las Vegas double-header — the season-opening NRL fixture played in the United States, growing the game internationally
- Super League Grand Final at Old Trafford — the season's culmination, played in October
FAQ
Common questions
What is the biggest rivalry in rugby league?
The Wigan vs St Helens derby is widely considered rugby league's most storied rivalry — these clubs have met more than 250 times since 1895, both based on Lancashire's coalfield, both repeated Super League champions. Wigan vs Leeds is also marquee. In Australia the Roosters vs Souths derby has the longest pedigree, dating to the NSWRL's 1908 foundation.
How often do rivalry teams play each other?
In Super League, clubs typically play each other twice in the regular season (once at each ground), with derby fixtures often timed for high-attendance windows like Easter, Magic Weekend, or the final round of the regular season. The play-offs add additional meetings if both clubs qualify and get drawn together.
Where can I watch rivalry matches?
UK derbies air on Sky Sports and selected matches on BBC Sport free-to-air. Australian derbies are on Fox League and Kayo, with Channel 9 free-to-air for selected matches. Outside the home country, Watch NRL covers all NRL fixtures and Super League+ covers all Super League matches.
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