Wakefield Trinity Building Momentum with Strategic NRL Signings for 2026 Campaign

Trinity’s Impressive Return to Super League

Wakefield Trinity marked their Betfred Super League return with an accomplished campaign that culminated in a Play-Offs place. After suffering relegation in 2023, the club bounced back emphatically under head coach Daryl Powell, demonstrating they belong at rugby league’s highest level. Powell’s side beat four of the top five during a season that illustrated the club’s overall progress under owner Matt Ellis, with notable victories including a comprehensive win against league leaders Hull KR.

Regularly playing in front of bumper crowds at their newly developed DIY Kitchens Stadium home, Trinity’s season only came to an end with a 26-10 Play-Offs defeat to Leigh. The sixth-place finish exceeded many expectations and provided a solid foundation for future growth.

Strategic Recruitment for 2026

Wakefield have strengthened their squad significantly ahead of the 2026 season. New signings Tyson Smoothy and Jazz Tevaga have been given numbers nine and 13 respectively, with Powell considering Smoothy, a recent NRL winner with Brisbane Broncos, best suited to hooker and Samoa’s Tevaga to loose forward. These NRL-quality additions demonstrate the club’s ambition to continue their upward trajectory.

The 2026 Betfred Super League fixtures have been confirmed with Wakefield Trinity taking on Toulouse Olympique in the season opener at the DIY Kitchens Stadium. Wakefield’s first hit out comes on Boxing Day when they make the short travel to Headingley to take on Leeds Rhinos in the Wetherby Whaler Festive Challenge, providing an early test against established Super League opposition.

Looking Ahead: Sustained Success

The challenge for Wakefield now is maintaining their momentum. The challenge for Trinity will be to continue their progression in season two of their return, which historically can prove difficult, but with the wily Powell at the helm, a handful of impressive new signings including NRL duo Jazz Tevaga and Tyson Smoothy secured, and a general feel-good factor around the club continuing, you certainly can’t bet against it.

With improved facilities, growing fan support, and strategic recruitment combining experience with youth, Wakefield Trinity appear well-positioned to build on their 2025 success and establish themselves as a competitive force in Super League for years to come.