Bold new look with historic twist for Rhinos

Leeds Rhinos have revealed their new look alternate kit for the 2026 Betfred Super League season which draws inspiration from the first ever appeal for people in Leeds to play rugby. 

On 20th March 1864, at 6.30am – following an advert placed in the 'Leeds Mercury' paper by railway clerk Henry Jenkinson – 'hundreds' of people turned up on the Woodhouse Moor to begin an association with the sport that has been at the heart of Leeds ever since.

At the time, rugby was gaining popularity across England, but the sport lacked a formal organizational structure in Leeds. A group of local sports enthusiasts, eager to establish a rugby club in the city, placed an advert in the newspaper inviting like-minded individuals to a meeting at the Cardigan Arms Hotel. This call to action drew significant interest, and kick-started rugby in Leeds.

The advert demonstrated the power of community engagement and media outreach in shaping sports culture during the Victorian era.

The distinctive ‘Leeds Mercury’ name has been used by the designers to give the Rhinos a bold new look for the 2026 season.

The replica kit is available now online by clicking here and from the club store at AMT Headingley from 10am on Saturday 1st November.

The shirt is available in adult sizes XS – 6XL and Ladies sizes from 8-18 priced at £54.99. Junior shirts in sizes 6-14 are £39.99. Replica shorts and socks are also available. 

Whilst stocks last, each alternate replica shirt will come with a special free Leeds Rhinos 2026 Chemical Training Tee. But this offer is limited to buy now to avoid disappointment.