England Rugby League Teams to Face France in Anniversary International Fixtures

The Super League Season’s Second Mid-Season Pause

The Super League season is set to take its second mid-season pause next week, as the England men’s and women’s rugby league teams travel to France for a double-header of international fixtures. The games will be held at Toulouse’s Stade Ernest-Wallon, marking the 90th anniversary of rugby league in the country.

Rugby league was pioneered in France by Jean Galia, who brought the nation’s first touring side to the UK in 1934. The upcoming matches against France provide a valuable opportunity for England head coach Shaun Wane to build towards the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, following the cancellation of the 2025 tournament due to financial constraints.

“The RFL has now clarified the situation. The initial reports suggested England players would receive just £250 as a match fee, but the RFL has explained that this figure does not include the daily payments players receive while in camp. According to the RFL, the total remuneration for the players will be around £1,000, which is consistent with previous mid-season internationals.”

RFL Chair, Johnson, expressed his delight at the opportunity to be part of the 90th anniversary celebrations of rugby league in France, acknowledging the rich and proud history of the sport in the country.

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