When it comes to constructing a sporting empire, Sir Alex Ferguson is a man who truly understands the craft. If we had known that the iconic Manchester United manager was the one delivering Wigan Warriors’ motivational speech on the eve of the Super League Grand Final, the outcome might have seemed inevitable even before the first kick. After all, this exceptional rugby league team hardly needs any extra assistance. Matt Peet’s squad achieved a historic quadruple by defeating Hull KR at Old Trafford on Saturday night, marking the first clean sweep in the Super League era and only the second in nearly a century.
“There was never a moment where we sat down and thought we’d win all four,” said Wigan captain Liam Farrell. “I didn’t think it was achievable anymore, but as the year progressed and we secured the first two trophies, it became a bit more realistic.” Any lingering doubts about whether this Wigan team belongs among the all-time greats have now been dispelled. The question now is: what’s next? One thing is certain: with Peet at the helm, there will be no complacency resting on their remarkable achievements.
Coach Peet was quick to dismiss any comparisons to the iconic Warriors sides of the 1980s and 90s, stating, “It’s nice to be asked and mentioned in the same breath, but we’ve got a few years to come yet.” Despite their dominance in the British game, their plans for undisputed world domination seem to be on hold. Wigan are the reigning world champions after winning this year’s World Club Challenge, but a rematch with the dominant National Rugby League premiers, Penrith Panthers, seems unlikely in 2025. The Panthers have hinted that their schedule won’t accommodate the game; some might speculate that after losing back-to-back World Club Challenge games, they are keen to avoid another humiliating defeat.
There is no doubt about Wigan’s eagerness to participate in the game, wherever it may be. “If there’s any way of making it happen, we’d definitely be up for it,” Farrell said. “The club absolutely wants to play in the World Club Challenge. We have a rich history in it, and if both teams can make it happen, it would be great to have another match-up against them.” Whether the match is staged or not, Wigan will approach 2025 with optimism and will likely be favorites to win the Super League once again. Peet may deny it, but his team has all the characteristics of a side that, in years to come, will be remembered alongside the great Wigan teams of the past. Just as Ferguson built a dynasty at the ground the Warriors have made their own in recent times.
