LEEDS RHINOS will again host Wakefield Trinity in the West Yorkshire rivals’ traditional Boxing Day clash.

The pre-season Wetherby Whaler Challenge pits the sides coached by Brad Arthur (pictured) and Daryl Powell against each other at 11.30am on Friday, December 26 at AMT Headingley.

Both are aiming to build on Super League play-off appearances in 2025 – Leeds finishing fourth before a 16-14 home defeat by St Helens at the first stage while Wakefield, back in the top flight after a year in the Championship, were sixth before going down 26-10 at Leigh Leopards.

Both bosses signed contract extensions in August, with Australian Arthur, in charge since July 2024 but often linked with a return Down Under, agreeing to stay to the end of 2026 at least.

Former Leeds team chief Powell, who joined Wakefield in the wake of Matt Ellis’ takeover of the club in October 2023, is now on board until 2029.

Leeds had already announced a pre-season clash at home to Super League newcomers Bradford Bulls in co-captain Cameron Smith’s testimonial match on Saturday, January 24 (1pm).

The festive fixture between Leeds and Wakefield stretches back to 2004.

Last year Arthur’s side edged an 18-16 win, with Jake Connor scoring two tries and kicking two goals ahead of a campaign in which he won the Man of Steel award.