The London Broncos will host a Challenge Cup game at Twickenham Stoop this year, marking a significant move in their inaugural season under Australian ownership. The Championship team, acquired in 2025 by a consortium led by NRL legend Darren Lockyer, is aiming to elevate the London club to the Super League. They begin their season this weekend against the Widnes Vikings at their current home, the Cherry Red Records Stadium, which has a capacity of 9,215.
The decision to play at the Stoop arises from both an effort to engage the Australian expat community in London and the anticipated pitch renovations at Plough Lane this summer. According to Grant Wechsel, co-owner of the London Broncos, the club is working closely with AFC Wimbledon to manage the timing of these renovations. “The only issue we have with Plough Lane is the pitch renovation and how long that will take,” he stated in an interview with City AM.
Broncos’ Historical Connection to Stoop
The Broncos have a history with the Stoop, having played two previous stints at the venue, which has a capacity of 14,800. Wechsel expressed enthusiasm about returning to the Stoop: “This year we’ve got a couple of games scheduled later in the season at the Stoop, and obviously there’s a bit of history there for us.” He noted that if the Broncos secure a place in the Super League, the organization will reassess their long-term home base.
Currently, the fixture list indicates a match against Featherstone in June is set to take place at the Stoop. The Broncos, who faced financial difficulties and were denied entry into this year’s Championship, are determined to make a robust showing in the Challenge Cup. They enter the competition in round two, with their first match against Wests Warriors at Plough Lane, followed by a possible fixture against fellow Championship side Bradford Bulls in February.
Wechsel also mentioned plans for a match against Doncaster at Ebbsfleet United’s Kuflink Stadium. With aspirations of competing fiercely in the Challenge Cup, the Broncos are eager to face Super League opponents, potentially leading them to the prestigious Wembley final.
This strategic move to the Stoop, coupled with their ambitious plans for the season, reflects the Broncos’ commitment to strengthening their presence in the UK rugby league landscape. As they embark on this new chapter under Australian ownership, the club aims not only to enhance its competitive edge but also to engage a broader audience within the vibrant rugby community in London.
