Santos Wheelchair Rugby World Challenge kicks off in Adelaide

Marking a historic moment for sport in Australia, the 2025 Santos Wheelchair Rugby World Challenge will see the world’s best wheelchair rugby athletes compete in Adelaide this weekend.

The 2025 Santos Wheelchair Rugby World Challenge will be held at Netball SA Stadium from tomorrow, Thursday 29 May until Sunday 1 June.

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

Making his Australian Steelers debut at the Challenge includes Adelaide Local Tai Martin-Page, as well as Conor Tweedy, Damien Mortaud and Lilliana Prucha.

The South Australian Government, through the South Australian Tourism Commission, is proud to support the event in a multi-year hosting agreement, solidifying the State as a leader in major accessible sporting events. The agreement will see Adelaide continue to host the World Challenge through 2026.

Limited tickets to witness world-class wheelchair rugby and support the Australian Steelers in their quest for victory are still available on 2025 Santos Wheelchair Rugby World Challenge - Universe

The 2025 Santos Wheelchair Rugby World Challenge is the latest in a suite of elite sporting events attracting fans and athletes to South Australia. This month, the State has hosted the inaugural Trans-Tasman Throwdown and five-star Adelaide Equestrian Festival, while preparing for the historic British & Irish Lions match at Adelaide Oval in July.

Quotes

Attributable to Minister for Tourism, Zoe Bettison

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.

Attributable to Chris Nay, CEO Wheelchair Rugby Australia

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.

Attributable to Tai Martin-Page, Steelers player and Adelaide local

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.
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.