Brisbane Broncos coach Michael Maguire has made it clear that the upcoming World Club Challenge is about more than just another trophy. He has urged his players to recognise the rare opportunity in front of them, reminding the squad that success on the global stage would see them remembered alongside the greatest names in the club’s history. The Broncos will face Hull KR on February 20 in northeast England, aiming to add to their past World Club Challenge triumphs from 1992 and 1997.
Maguire knows exactly what the title represents, having experienced both extremes of the competition. In 2015, he coached South Sydney to a record-breaking 39–0 victory over St Helens, the largest margin ever recorded in the fixture. Current Broncos captain Adam Reynolds was part of that historic Rabbitohs side, making him the only member of Brisbane’s squad to have previously lifted the trophy. Maguire has also felt the disappointment of defeat, having been on the losing end with Wigan in 2011, which has further shaped his respect for the challenge.
The Broncos’ preparations will begin early, with the team flying to London on February 9 following their season launch in Brisbane. They will be based at The Lensbury, a renowned training resort that has hosted elite teams such as the All Blacks and Kangaroos. During their stay, Brisbane will take part in a joint training session with the London Broncos, now co-owned by club legend Darren Lockyer, who played in Brisbane’s 1997 World Club Challenge-winning side. Maguire believes the connection is valuable for the sport and for his team’s preparation.
Brisbane enter the match riding the confidence of ending a 19-year NRL premiership drought last season and are determined to claim their first World Club Challenge title in 29 years. However, Maguire has been quick to stress that Hull KR, coached by Willie Peters and reigning Super League champions, deserve full respect. Having worked in the English game, he understands how much the competition means to clubs and fans in the UK.
For Maguire, the message to his players is simple: moments like this do not come around often. He has challenged the squad to appreciate the significance of the occasion, embrace the pressure, and chase another piece of silverware. With momentum on their side and history within reach, the Broncos see the World Club Challenge as a chance to continue building a winning era and cement their place among the club’s all-time greats.
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