Trinity's Road to Old Trafford

Wakefield Trinity's road to Old Trafford is one of the most remarkable stories in recent Super League history.

Just three years after relegation, Trinity will feature in their maiden Super League Grand Final, completing a rise few would have thought possible.

Under head coach Daryl Powell and owner Matt Ellis, Wakefield have steadily built a squad capable of competing with the competition's elite, something many Trinity fans have never truly experienced before.

It did not all start smoothly in 2026, however.

A shock 18-16 defeat to Toulouse Olympique in Round 1 threatened to derail the excitement surrounding the new campaign. Instead, it became a turning point.

Wakefield responded impressively, growing stronger each week and developing into one of the Super League's most consistent and entertaining outfits.

Built around one of the league's most formidable forward packs, Trinity laid the platform for success through the likes of captain Mike McMeeken, Caius Faatili, Caleb Hamlin-Uele, Ky Rodwell and Isaiah Vagana. Their dominance through the middle allowed Wakefield's attacking players to flourish, while the squad benefitted from remaining relatively injury-free throughout the season.

The results followed.

Wakefield swept aside their nearest rivals Castleford Tigers in every meeting and completed doubles over both Leigh Leopards and champions Hull KR.

They were able to inflict heavy scores on sides below them and enjoyed an unbeaten July as part of a seven-match winning streak that propelled them firmly into the top four.

Along the way came another significant milestone: a first victory in Perpignan since 2018.

Suddenly, Wakefield were no longer just a feel-good story. They were genuine contenders.

At one stage, Trinity even found themselves in the conversation for the League Leaders' Shield. The combination of hometown heroes such as Max Jowitt and Tom Johnstone, a trio of half-backs in Mason Lino, Jack Sinfield and Jake Trueman, alongside the influence of NRL recruits Tyson Smoothy and Jazz Tevaga, helped create a side capable of competing with anybody.

Then came a reality check.

In one of the games of the season, Wakefield were edged out 24-22 by Leeds Rhinos in a dramatic contest. A week later, they were beaten comprehensively by St Helens.

The momentum that had carried them through much of the year suddenly disappeared, and they struggled to beat top six opposition when it mattered most.

Questions were asked. Doubts emerged. Many began to wonder whether Trinity's fairy-tale campaign was beginning to unravel.

Instead, they responded exactly as they had done all year.

By securing fourth place, Wakefield achieved their highest ever Super League finish and earned a crucial home Play-Off tie.

The first challenge came against the Leopards in the Eliminators. Trinity produced a strong and composed display, overcoming Leigh to keep their season alive and book a trip to league leaders Wigan Warriors, where again they were almost immediately written off.

Few gave them a chance, but Trinity embraced the underdog tag and produced the performance of their lives.

And what followed will live long in Wakefield folklore.

Travelling to face the competition's heavyweights, Trinity produced arguably the shock of the season. In a stunning display, they dismantled Wigan 6-33 in the Semi-Finals to secure the club's first ever Grand Final appearance.

Now, history awaits.

From relegation in 2023 to Old Trafford in 2026, Wakefield's rise has been extraordinary and enjoyable to watch.

A club that has not experienced success on this scale since its glory days of the 1960s now stands one game away from replicating this in the modern era.

The journey has already rewritten the record books, and the final chapter could be even more special.

Will Trinity become just the sixth side to lift the Super League trophy?

Warrington Wolves will face Wakefield Trinity in the 2026 Betfred Super League Grand Final on Saturday 3 October (K.O. 6pm). Don't miss Rugby League's biggest night and get your tickets here!