Leeds Rhinos head coach Brad Arthur is ready for his team to be considered for the 2026 Super League, and what better way to do that than by defeating the world champions in Las Vegas.
Leeds Rhinos take on Hull KR at Allegiant Stadium on Saturday, while the Robins continue their strong run of form after defeating NRL champions Brisbane Broncos in the World Club Challenge.
However, in Super League 2025, Leeds had Hull KR’s jersey number and managed to win both home and away matches.
This will give Leeds confidence heading into Saturday’s encounter and will also motivate them to send a message that they are one of the teams to beat in 2026.
Use Chrome Browser for a more accessible video player
Leeds Rhinos’ Jarrod O’Connor, Danny Levi and Cameron Smith all joined Brian Carney ahead of the game against Hull KR at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas
For Arthur, Hull KR brings out the best in his team as he takes Leeds up a notch and rises to the level that Willie Peters’ side are producing.
This is the level the team wants to consistently reach by 2026.
“They probably bought our best. We played well because we know we have to be at our best to give ourselves a chance,” Arthur said.
“So, we may have had the ball bouncing here and there, but we were in the game because of who was playing.
Use Chrome Browser for a more accessible video player
Hull KR wingers Tom Davis and Noah Booth ride the Slotzilla zip line at Fremont Street in Las Vegas
“As we felt throughout last year, we probably always need to own more of that kind of performance and that’s what we’re chasing.
“Hal KR, they always deliver on that so that’s where we have to work hard.
“I’m confident we were able to get the team to do it. They just believe and want to do it and have a really hungry spirit.”
“I hope both teams can come out and play a legitimate game and give back to the Super League fans.”
Use Chrome Browser for a more accessible video player
Leeds Rhinos stars Ryan Hall and Harry Newman took a tour of the Las Vegas Strip in a military hammer, soaking up all the sights and sounds of the iconic city
Across all venues in Las Vegas, Hull KR are hailed as world champions and the NRL is giving them the respect they deserve for beating their personal best at the World Club Challenge.
For Arthur, who has worked extensively in Australia, this is the latest symbol of how strong Super League can be and now he hopes his side will be another one to show they can perform on the big stage.
“I have 11 years of experience in the NRL. We know how good NRL teams are, but you also have to witness the side here,” he added.
“I think some NRL coaches don’t give this team enough credit or justice, but I feel like the competition is strong and quite a few teams are starting to close the gap.
“The people of Leeds have gotten to know me a bit more and all the support has been great and always positive.
“I think they just want their team to be able to go to games every week and represent the fans with their performance.
“It doesn’t necessarily lead to a win, but at least they know they can go into the game and they know what kind of performance they’re going to get.”
2026 Super League – Important dates and highlights
Rugby League in Las Vegas: Saturday 28 February: Hull KR v Leeds Rhinos, 11pm (Sky Sports) Super League 30th Birthday: Thursday 26 March: Castleford Tigers v Bradford Bulls, 8pm (Sky Sports) Rivals Round: 3-5 April Super League in Paris: Saturday 6 June: Catalunya Dragons v Wigan Warriors (Paris) 6:30pm (Sky Sports) Magic Weekend: July 4-5 Rivals Round Reversal: July 23-26 Elimination Play-Offs: September 19-20 Play-off Semi-Finals: September 26-27 Grand Final: October 3, Old Trafford.
Sky Sports will continue to broadcast every Super League match live this season. Exclusively live, including two matches from each round, the remaining five matches will be shown weekly on Sky Sports+.
