Forces rugby league sides find out 2026 Challenge Cup first-round opponents

The British Army and Royal Navy have both received home ties in the draw for the first round of the 2026 Challenge Cup.

The Army will host Wests Warriors in Aldershot in a rematch from last year's second round fixture which saw the Army knocked out of the competition after a 36-18 loss.

Burnaby Road in Portsmouth will host the Navy's match against Hammersmith Hills Hoists as the Senior Service look to reach the second round for the second consecutive year.

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The RAF will face an away trip to York with Heworth their opponents, and if they can secure the win, a high-profile home clash with Championship side Keighley Cougars would be their reward.

If the Army make it to the second round, they will go away to Championship team London Broncos while the Navy would also face Championship opposition in the second round as Salford Red Devils await the winner of the round one clash in Portsmouth.

All round one matches are currently scheduled to be played on the weekend of 10-11 January, while the second round comes two weeks later on the weekend of 24-25 January.