Santos Wheelchair Rugby World 2026 Challenge Set to Elevate Adelaide Sports Tourism with Global Teams, Elite Athletes, and Inclusive Competition

Published on December 9, 2025

The Santos Wheelchair Rugby World Challenge will make its highly anticipated return to Adelaide in April 2026, cementing South Australia’s position as a leading destination for major accessible sporting events. This thrilling competition will bring international wheelchair rugby teams to the state, offering elite athleticism, global attention, and a celebration of inclusive sport.

Running from Thursday, April 23 to Sunday, April 26, 2026, the World Challenge promises to be one of the most exciting wheelchair rugby events on the international calendar. Fans can look forward to four action-packed days of gameplay, with live broadcasts on Fox Sports and Kayo Sports, allowing viewers worldwide to join in on the action.

A Showcase of World-Class Wheelchair Rugby

The event will feature the Australian Steelers, ranked number two in the world, as they take on some of the world’s best wheelchair rugby teams. Known for their powerful hits and strategic plays, the Australian Steelers have a proud history of securing medals, and fans can expect an intense competition in front of a home crowd eager to cheer them on.

In addition to the elite international teams, the 2026 Santos Wheelchair Rugby World Challenge will also feature the return of the fan-favorite junior division, which debuted in 2025. This division gives young athletes the chance to showcase their talent and gives fans a glimpse of potential future Steelers. These juniors will take the court for their first competitive matches, adding an extra layer of excitement to the event.

Community Engagement and Inclusivity at the Core

The event will also offer several community engagement activities, allowing fans to get closer to the action and interact with the athletes. This focus on inclusivity aligns perfectly with South Australia’s commitment to making sport accessible to all, and the World Challenge will serve as a festival of sport, bringing together players, fans, and volunteers from around the globe.

Alongside the World Challenge, the event will run concurrently with the Australian National Championship, which will feature domestic teams competing for national glory. This combination of international and local competition makes the event not only a premier sporting showcase but also a celebration of wheelchair rugby’s growth and inclusivity in Australia.

State-of-the-Art Venue for an Elite Event

The 2026 World Challenge will be held at the state-of-the-art State Basketball Centre in Wayville, South Australia, providing a world-class venue for this major sporting event. With the $92 million multi-sport redevelopment at Mile End’s Netball SA underway, the venue will offer top-tier facilities for athletes and spectators alike. The State Basketball Centre is expected to be the perfect backdrop for what is set to be an electrifying event.

A Boost for South Australia’s Tourism and Global Sporting Reputation

Minister for Tourism, Zoe Bettison, expressed pride in hosting the 2026 Santos Wheelchair Rugby World Challenge, recognizing the event as a fantastic opportunity for South Australia to elevate its reputation as a destination for accessible sporting events. Hosting this prestigious event further solidifies the state’s standing as a hub for global sporting competitions.

South Australia is no stranger to attracting major international events. The World Challenge will complement a packed calendar of elite sporting events, including the Adelaide International, Santos Tour Down Under, LIV Golf Adelaide, and AFL Gather Round. These events collectively boost the region’s reputation as a year-round destination for both sports fans and tourists alike.

Major international sporting events like the World Challenge not only inspire local communities but also help drive tourism and provide an economic boost to the region. They also showcase the state to global audiences, highlighting South Australia’s commitment to fostering inclusivity in sport and offering world-class experiences to visitors.

The Australian Steelers’ Quest for Glory

The World Challenge presents an excellent opportunity for the Australian Steelers to prepare for their quest to defend their World Championship title later in the year. As they face off against some of the best teams from around the globe, the Steelers will have the chance to fine-tune their strategies and continue their success on home soil. The event will also provide fans with a chance to watch their team compete at the highest level, further strengthening the bond between the athletes and their supporters.

Chris Nay, CEO of Wheelchair Rugby Australia, highlighted the significance of the World Challenge as the highest level of competition in Australia, bringing together some of the world’s best wheelchair rugby players. The event promises to elevate the sport, inspire new athletes, and showcase the incredible power of wheelchair rugby.

Exciting Times Ahead for Wheelchair Rugby

The return of the Santos Wheelchair Rugby World Challenge to Adelaide in 2026 will be an unforgettable event for fans of wheelchair rugby and sports tourism enthusiasts alike. With an exciting mix of elite competition, community engagement, and world-class facilities, this event promises to be a key highlight in the sporting calendar.

For fans looking to attend, tickets for the 2026 Santos Wheelchair Rugby World Challenge will be available from early 2026. Those eager to secure their spot can register their interest now at the official Wheelchair Rugby Australia website.

[Image Credit: South Australian Tourism Commission]