Wigan Warriors 2026 season preview
2025 recap
After a quadruple in 2024, Wigan finished the season without any trophies in 2025 – the first time that’s happened since 2021.
They still reached the Grand Final, but a disappointing performance saw them lose 24-6 to deserved champions, Hull KR.
2025 position: 2nd (Runners-up in Grand Final)
Key signings
Dayon Sambou (St Helens), Jonny Vaughan (St Helens), Oliver Wilson (Huddersfield), Finn McMillan (Barrow Raiders), Oliver Partington (Catalans)
Key departures
Christian Wade (Newcastle Red Bulls), Liam Byrne (Warrington), Harvie Hill (Hull FC), Tyler Dupree (Toulouse – season-long loan), Jacob Douglas (St Helens), Harvey Makin (Oldham – season-long loan), Kruise Leeming (Catalans – season-long loan)
Players to watch
There was a notable drop-off in Junior Nsemba’s performances in 2025 – so much so, that he was left out of the England squad for the Ashes. He still managed his best tryscoring season though with nine, and it’s easy to forget he’s only 21. I’m expecting him to bounce back this year.
Sam Eseh should finally make his Warriors debut after two seasons out on loan. He really established himself during his spell at Hull FC last year, and with Wigan consistently having injury issues in the forwards, he could see plenty of action this season.
Young gun
It seems a bit ridiculous to suggest this is a make-or-break season for Jack Farrimond, given that he’s still only 20. However, after two seasons of being in and around the squad without nailing down a starting spot, how much longer will he be prepared to hang around on the fringes?
Our prediction – 2nd (Grand Final runners-up)
Wigan haven’t really strengthened from last year, but their squad doesn’t look any weaker either, so I’m tipping them to finish 2nd again. Anything below 4th would be unthinkable, but I still see them as one of the best two sides in the league, so a 2nd-placed finish and another Grand Final appearance is hardly an earth-shattering prediction.
