By BREAKING: Everton’s new stadium has been chosen to host the historic return of Rugby League’s Ashes series this autumn pic.twitter.com/Zgp7qvF07S
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) March 26, 2025
The new Everton Stadium, boasting a capacity of 52,888 and situated on Liverpool’s picturesque waterfront, will be one of three venues for the best-of-three test match series. According to sources from Love Rugby League, Wembley Stadium, with its 90,000-seat capacity, is set to host the opening test, while Leeds Rhinos’ historic Headingley Stadium, holding just under 20,000, will stage the third match. Everton’s inclusion as a host venue underscores its growing reputation as a premier destination for major sporting events, even before its official opening for football.
The Rugby League Ashes, a storied competition dating back to 1908, mirrors the cricket series of the same name. It pits England (previously Great Britain) against Australia in a battle for the prestigious Ashes Cup, donated in 1928 by the City Tattersalls Club in Sydney. The cup, inscribed with “INTERNATIONAL RUGBY LEAGUE FOOTBALL Australia v England (THE ASHES),” was last contested in 2003, with Australia dominating much of the series’ history. Legends like Clive Churchill, Wally Lewis, and Mal Meninga have left their mark, each captaining Australia to nine wins during their tenures.
Revived in 2023 after failed attempts in 2020 (canceled due to COVID-19) and 2022, the 2025 series will also feature a women’s Ashes competition for the first time as an established event, adding to the excitement. The Rugby Football League (RFL) has been working diligently to finalize the schedule, aiming to reignite the passion of fans who have waited over two decades for the series’ return.
Everton’s waterfront stadium, with its modern facilities and scenic backdrop, promises to provide a stunning setting for this historic occasion. As rugby league enthusiasts gear up for the autumn showdown, the selection of such high-profile venues signals the sport’s ambition to reclaim its place on the global stage. Fans are already buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be a thrilling chapter in the Ashes legacy.
