The Warriors’ outstanding accomplishments in 2024 have set a lofty standard, but with strong leadership and a focus on continuous growth, they are resolute in their determination to remain at the pinnacle of rugby league.
Wigan Warriors are facing a unique challenge heading into the 2025 Super
League season – how to maintain their hunger for success after an
unprecedented quadruple-winning 2024 campaign. The club’s CEO, Kris
Radlinski, recently shared insights into the Warriors’ quest to keep pushing
forward despite their dominance last season, focusing on the importance of
maintaining high standards and motivation, particularly from the team’s
captain, Liam Farrell.
The Warriors had an extraordinary 2024 season, securing every major trophy
on offer, including the Super League Grand Final, where they triumphed in a
gritty 12-6 victory over Hull KR at Old Trafford. While such accomplishments
would naturally lead many teams to feel a sense of accomplishment, Radlinski
insists that Wigan’s mindset remains firmly focused on the future.
One of the greatest tests for Wigan as they approach the 2025 season is finding
a way to instill “hunger in paradise,” as Radlinski put it. After such a successful
year, it can be difficult for players to stay driven, but the Warriors’ leadership,
headed by the inspirational Farrell, is determined to keep the fire burning.
Radlinski highlighted the importance of Farrell’s attitude, noting that the
captain isn’t satisfied with just one year of success. “We’re very lucky to have a
captain in Liam Farrell who wants to finish his career with a full trophy
cabinet,” Radlinski said. “He doesn’t want to have one year of success, he
wants to look back on a 15-year career and see that he has won many, many
trophies.”
This commitment to continued success is crucial for Wigan as they prepare for
the new season. Despite the challenges that come with sustaining high-level
performance, the Warriors are determined to build on their past achievements
and avoid any complacency. Radlinski’s emphasis on Farrell’s leadership
highlights the club’s collective ambition to remain at the top of the sport.
Wigan’s stellar year hasn’t gone unnoticed, and the club is now in the running
for the BBC’s Sports Team of the Year award at the 2024 Sports Personality of
the Year ceremony. Radlinski expressed pride in being part of the conversation
surrounding this prestigious award, noting that it represents an important
recognition for both Wigan and rugby league as a whole.
“The Sports Personality of the Year is an institution, and I’m confident they’ve
tracked our success this year,” Radlinski said. “To be part of the conversation
is massive for our club but, more importantly, for the sport. Rugby league is
still fighting for the recognition it deserves.”
Radlinski acknowledged that, despite the sport’s immense popularity, rugby
league still faces significant challenges, particularly in terms of financial
distribution. While other sports enjoy growing broadcast deals, rugby league’s
central distribution – its main source of revenue – has seen a decline in recent
years. However, the Warriors CEO remains optimistic about the future of the
sport, thanks to the partnership with IMG, the strategic partner now
overseeing rugby league’s evolution.
Next year marks the debut of IMG’s grading process, which is designed to
strengthen clubs and improve the sport’s overall standards. While the
partnership has received mixed reactions, Radlinski believes that IMG’s focus
on improving infrastructure, digital transformation, and club investment is
essential for long-term growth. He stressed, however, that this process is just
one part of the solution.
“When IMG came in, the term ‘reimagination’ created certain expectations,”
Radlinski explained. “But the reality is that they’re focused on helping clubs
improve standards, and there’s been significant investment in many areas. The
process is ongoing, and while it may not have fully lived up to some
expectations, the product is still delivering.”
Looking ahead, Wigan will be hoping for continued success both on the field
and in terms of recognition. With the 2025 Super League season fast
approaching, maintaining their drive and ambition will be key. The Warriors’
remarkable 2024 achievements set a high bar, but with strong leadership and
a commitment to improvement, they are determined to stay at the top of the
rugby league hierarchy.
