Magic Weekend 2026: Liverpool to Host Six-Game Rugby League Event at Hill Dickinson Stadium
Liverpool's Hill Dickinson Stadium will host the 2026 Super League Magic Weekend, staging six matches across July 4-5, featuring city derbies, cross-town rivalries, and plans for a France fixture.
Liverpool welcomes the Super League's Magic Weekend back to the city, with six games set to light up Hill Dickinson Stadium on July 4-5, 2026. The venue, opened earlier this year, will host the event for the first time, adding a waterfront backdrop to a fan-friendly weekend.
Event highlights
York, newly promoted to the top flight, will kick off Saturday’s action against Huddersfield. Hull KR collide with local rivals Hull FC, and Leigh faces Warrington in the day’s other fixtures. On Sunday, Wakefield takes on Castleford, Leeds eyes Bradford Bulls, and a final derby between Wigan and St Helens brings the weekend to a close. There are also discussions of a dedicated Catalans Dragons vs Toulouse fixture in France, at a neutral venue.
“We’re thrilled to bring Magic Weekend back to Hill Dickinson Stadium after the memorable Ashes Test week,” said Rhodri Jones, Rugby League Commercial managing director. “This venue offers excellent facilities and a superb waterfront setting, and we’re confident it will deliver a memorable weekend for clubs, players, and supporters.”
Officials also noted ongoing feasibility work with the Dragons and Toulouse to stage a landmark Magic fixture in France in the near future.
2026 Magic Weekend schedule
Saturday, 4 July
- Huddersfield v York
- Hull KR v Hull FC
- Leigh v Warrington
Sunday, 5 July
- Wakefield v Castleford
- Leeds v Bradford Bulls
- Wigan v St Helens
Kick-off times are yet to be confirmed.
Key takeaways
- Six Super League matches across a two-day festival at Hill Dickinson Stadium.
- First Magic Weekend appearance for York and a return to Liverpool following 2019’s Anfield event.
- Possible France fixture between Catalans Dragons and Toulouse Olympique being considered for a neutral venue in France.
Expert perspective
The event presents a prime opportunity to showcase rugby league in a vibrant city with top-tier facilities, said an industry observer. “The weekend format keeps fans engaged and supports clubs with increased exposure and revenue.”
Summary
The 2026 Magic Weekend lands in Liverpool, delivering six competitive Super League clashes across July 4-5 at Hill Dickinson Stadium. With York’s debut and a slate of thrilling derbies, the event promises a festive, family-friendly atmosphere while continuing to explore a France-based fixture in the future.
Key takeaway: Magic Weekend returns to Liverpool with six high-profile games at Hill Dickinson Stadium, and plans for a cross-Channel fixture indicate ongoing growth for the event. Source