AMSTERDAM awaits York Knights in a ground-breaking event early next year.

Andrew Henderson’s side will face Betfred Super League giants Hull KR at the NRCA Stadium in the Dutch capital on Saturday, January 25.

The Amsterdam Challenge will see both clubs expand rugby league into the Netherlands.

Whilst ticket and travel package information will be confirmed in due course, York RLFC will be selling physical tickets for the match.

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Chairman Clint Goodchild enthused: “We are excited to be a part of such an enterprising endeavour with Hull KR.

“We believe the sport of rugby league is a product that will work in any country given the right time, support and coverage.

“It’s been a pleasure to work with Craig Franklin and all the staff at Hull KR who have put so much time and thought into this soon to be annual event.

“Any excuse for a trip abroad is a good one, but there is no better excuse than rugby league, I have no doubt our fan bases will get right behind it and show the spirit of the game to new and growing audience in Amsterdam.”

Paul Lakin, Hull KR Chief Executive, added: “This is an exciting day for the club as we continue our Global Robins journey. Last month we announced a historic partnership with the Port Moresby Vipers in Papua New Guinea, and today we announce our next international venture.

“After working with the Netherlands National Rugby League Governing body in the community for some time, we are delighted to extend our partnership to take the club on tour to play a game in Amsterdam in January 2025.

“With direct transport links to Amsterdam and Rotterdam, and a long history of trading with the docks of Hull, the great country of the Netherlands are almost neighbours for us, with Amsterdam being a shorter distance away from East Hull in miles than Aberdeen or Devon, as the crow flies.

“With over 100 rugby clubs in the country, it’s a natural territory for us to explore new male and female pathways and grow our footprint, whilst giving our fans the opportunity to have a fantastic weekend away in one of Europe’s best cities.

“To deliver the project we are working with a fantastic range of new partners, from commercial sponsors to the stadium itself, who I’d like to personally thank. And of course, the York Knights who have been right behind the project from minute one and are committed to making it a success.

“It’s a jigsaw that has taken some time to bring to life, but one we are all now behind as a club to deliver.”

York Press: York RLFC chairman Clint Goodchild is excited to be a part of the new venture.York RLFC chairman Clint Goodchild is excited to be a part of the new venture. (Image: Supplied)

Andrew Meredith, Directeur of Rugby Nederland at the NRCA Stadium, said: “Our NRCA Stadium is the home of rugby in the Netherlands. We are delighted to welcome fans of Hull KR and York Knights here for what is set to be a special occasion.

“We recently hosted an EPCR Challenge Cup fixture before a sell-out crowd, so we are excited to add this special event to our calendar. Amsterdam is a fantastic host city for such events. We are sure the fans will love their weekend here.”

Daan Van Rossum from the NRLB, added: “This is a significant step in our journey to develop the Netherlands Rugby League pathways and become accredited to play in World Cup tournaments.

“It’s an exciting project, and one we hope to grow each year to support our vision for Rugby League in the Netherlands.”