Disappointment for fans as Leeds Rhinos v Salford Red Devils Challenge Cup final set to stay behind closed doors at Wembley

The Rugby Football League announced last week, before the semi-finals, the decider would be played at Wembley, but without a crowd.

Salford stunned Warrington Wolves in their last-four tie to secure a first Challenge Cup final appearance for 51 years and a group of their supporters have set up a petition calling for some spectators to be admitted to Wembley on Saturday, October 17.

The governing body say they are continuing to lobby the government, but with just 11 days until the showpiece, a late change of plan appears unlikely.

Rhinos are keen for club legend Rob Burrow, who was diagnosed last year with motor neurone disease, to lead the team out and there have also been calls for him to present the trophy, but that will depend on health and safety factors.

A statement from the governing body said: “The RFL have been working closely for some time with Wembley Stadium and other relevant authorities about the unique logistics surrounding this year’s Coral Challenge Cup final, which have been further complicated by the recent confirmation that the match must be played behind closed doors.

“We continue to lobby government on this and other issues, as we share the disappointment of supporters of both finalists and the many others who would like to attend one of the great traditional occasions of British sport.

“But with the game remaining behind closed doors for the first time in its history, this will obviously enforce significant limitations on access to the stadium and on what can happen on the pitch before and after the match in terms of the presentation of the teams and the trophy.”

The statement added: “As we have shown by opting to play the final at Wembley despite the absence of a crowd, we are determined to provide a fitting spectacle to reflect the tradition of the competition, to do justice to the teams involved and to the BBC television audience – which we hope will maintain the highly encouraging figures from the weekend’s semi-finals double header.”

Rhinos have confirmed they will wear next season’s home kit for the final.

The design features a tribute to Burrow.

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Laura Collins