Everton are already enjoying the benefits of having a new state-of-the-art venue, despite only moving into their new Hill Dickinson Stadium at the start of the season.
Last week, the dates were confirmed for the five Euro 2028 matches that will be held at the venue. Everton are looking forward to hosting four group stage matches and one last-16 clash in the tournament that will take place across England, Scotland, Wales and the Republic of Ireland.
Not only will the new stadium allow Everton to host other football events, but it will also allow them to welcome other sports to the venue.
Everton hosted a Rugby League game earlier this month when England faced Australia in the second match of a three-game Ashes series.
Everton to host Super League Magic Weekend in 2026
It has now been confirmed that Rugby League will return to the venue after the club amended the premises license for the stadium, paving the way for Everton to host its first Super League Magic Weekend in 2026.
As per the Toffees Online, the amendment says: “In the event of there being consecutive games on the same day, and with the agreement of the Police and the Certifying Authority such agreement not to be unreasonably withheld, and as part of the alcohol management plan, all concourse bars would be able to be open between the games but in respect of each game would close at the end of half time until the end of the game before re-opening, and not re-open after the final game save for the concourse bars in the South Stand and the East Stand specified in Condition 22 which could remain open for one hour after the final game.”
The Magic Weekend is an annual event that sees an entire round of Super League matches played over the course of a weekend at a single stadium.
The event will be hosted in Liverpool for the second time after it previously took place at Anfield in 2019.
The fixtures have already been confirmed for next year's event, which will take place in July.
Saturday July 4:
- Huddersfield Giants vs. York Knights
- Hull KR vs. Hull FC
- Leigh Leopards vs. Warrington Wolves
Saturday July 5:
- Wakefield Trinity vs. Castleford Tigers
- Leeds Rhinos vs. Bradford Bulls
- Wigan Warriors vs. St Helens
FGG says: Everton reaping benefits of new stadium
One of the main advantages of having a modern stadium is that it creates the opportunity to open up new revenue streams.
The news that the Hill Dickinson Stadium will host next summer's Magic Weekend proves that Everton can monetise their stadium outside the football season, which will only boost the club's finances and should have a positive impact on their transfer budget.