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Challenge Cup

31 May 2022

Betfred Challenge Cup Final: RFL Chief Executive welcomes TV audience figures

Betfred Challenge Cup Final: RFL Chief Executive welcomes TV audience figures

The 2022 Betfred Rugby League Challenge Cup Final attracted an average BBC TV audience of more than 1.1million and a peak of 1.5million – the greatest audience share of any Challenge Cup Final since 2008 and the highest peak since 2016. 

On a busy sporting Saturday only the UEFA Champions League Final attracted a greater TV audience, with Rugby League’s showpiece event enjoying an increase of 23% on the average audience for the 2021 final.  

The average audience of 1.1million was also the second highest since 2014, bettered only by the 2020 final which was played behind closed doors during the Covid-19 pandemic.  

Ralph Rimmer, RFL Chief Executive, says: “What a wonderful occasion – players and supporters alike showcasing the very best of Rugby League from one of Europe’s greatest stadiums and captivating the attention of legions of people in all corners of the country. 

“I’d like to thank our valued commercial partners, Betfred and AB Sundecks, our fabulous hosts Tottenham Hotspur Football Club, the participating finalists and our broadcast partner, BBC Sport, whose coverage was once again second to none.  

“The BBC of course will cover every minute of each of the 61 Rugby League World Cup games taking place this autumn. The tournament promises to be the biggest and best Rugby League World Cup ever, and begins in less than 150 days. This is a huge year for our sport.”    

2022 Betfred Challenge Cup Final viewing figures  

  • Average match audience: 1,158,210  

  • Average match audience up +23.2% against 2021 (939,790 v 1,158,210)  

  • Peak audience: 1,519,400  

  • TV audience share: 15.6% (greatest for any Rugby League game this season and highest of any Challenge Cup Final since 2008)