The 2025 World Club Challenge (WCC) is on the verge of being scrapped despite support from Penrith Panthers star Nathan Cleary and Super League champions Wigan. NRL CEO Andrew Abdo acknowledged that the match, traditionally played between the top NRL and Super League teams, will likely be shelved next year due to player fatigue from an already packed schedule.
Penrith, who had no interest in the mid-February game due to their international commitments and first-round match in Las Vegas, expressed concerns over player welfare. Wigan, however, was eager to participate, but their efforts to save the event have been unsuccessful.
The WCC has been an annual fixture since the early 2000s, except for two years affected by COVID-19. While Wigan has won the title five times, Penrith has yet to secure a victory in four attempts.
Abdo hinted that the WCC could return in 2026 with potential scheduling adjustments, possibly moving the game to mid-season instead of the start of the year. Cleary had proposed incorporating the WCC into the NRL’s Magic Round in May, but that idea has gained little traction. There was also a suggestion to replace Penrith with Melbourne, the minor premiers and grand final runners-up, but it met mixed reactions from fans.