The countdown is over – the 2025 Santos Wheelchair Rugby World Challenge kicks off tomorrow in Adelaide!

Adelaide is set to host the world’s best as the 2025 Santos Wheelchair Rugby World Challenge begins tomorrow, marking a historic moment for sport in Australia.

The 2025 Santos Wheelchair Rugby World Challenge is set to electrify Adelaide from 29 May to 1 June at Netball SA Stadium. This inaugural event marks the first time since 2018 that the Australian Steelers will compete on home soil, bringing together elite international teams from Australia, Canada, Brazil, Germany, New Zealand, and the Netherlands.

The competition also includes the Wheelchair Rugby National Championship and a newly introduced junior division, making it the most comprehensive wheelchair rugby event globally this year.

Chris Nay, CEO of Wheelchair Rugby Australia, expressed his enthusiasm for the event:

“Thursday's opening whistle signals more than just a game - it’s a celebration of resilience, elite performance, and the power of inclusive sport. Australia has a proud tradition in wheelchair rugby, and hosting the World Challenge gives us the chance to showcase the elite competition and skill of our athletes to an audience that might never have experienced a game."

"We’re calling on all Australians to fill the stands, get behind our Steelers, and be part of something unforgettable. We hope this event leaves a legacy beyond medals and memories and really moves the needle for greater awareness, accessibility, and engagement with disability sport across the country and the world."

For Adelaide local Tai Martin-Page, who makes his debut for the Steelers at the World Challenge, the experience is already unforgettable.

“To make my debut in my hometown, in front of family and friends is a huge honour. We’ve trained hard, we’re ready, and all that's left is to hear the crowd in the stadium cheering us on,” said Martin-Page.

"I’m here to learn, compete, and give everything I’ve got. Representing Australia is a privilege and the Steelers have a rich history and a reputation for excellence. To be part of that legacy now is something I don't take for granted."

Joining Martin-Page in making their Australian Steelers debuts are Conor Tweedy, Damien Mortaud and Lilliana Prucha.

The South Australian Government has thrown its support behind the event with a multi-year hosting agreement, solidifying the state as a leader in major accessible sporting events and ensuring that Adelaide will continue to host the World Challenge through 2026.

Minister for Tourism, Zoe Bettison said:

“There is no better place than South Australia to host the largest Wheelchair Rugby event in the world in 2025.

“It was wonderful to see people from around Australia come out to support the Wheelchair Rugby National Championships in Adelaide last year, and the event is only set to grow with the addition of the Wheelchair Rugby World Challenge and junior’s division.

“South Australia is proud to host this world-class competition. Events like this showcase our sporting spirit, boost tourism, and highlight our State’s commitment to inclusive, high-impact events.

“With international rivalries, fast-paced action, and elite athletes, get down to the Netball SA Stadium this week for a tournament not to be missed.

Tickets still available to witness wheelchair rugby’s world-class action

Limited tickets for the 2025 Santos Wheelchair Rugby World Challenge are still available. Don’t miss the chance to witness world-class wheelchair rugby and support the Australian Steelers in their quest for victory.

Dates: Thursday 29 May – Sunday 1 June 2025

Venue: Netball SA Stadium, Adelaide

Tickets: Available now

Event website: https://www.wheelchairrugby.com.au/world-challenge

Find information on how to watch the event in your region here.

The countdown is over – the 2025 Santos Wheelchair Rugby World Challenge kicks off tomorrow in Adelaide!

Tickets still available to witness wheelchair rugby’s world-class action

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