MAGIC Weekend is staying in Super League this year after being moved to September.

SunSport revealed there was a chance the two-day event, which sees an entire round of fixtures played at the same venue, may yet stay.

Now it has been confirmed it will be at Newcastle’s St James’ Park on September 4 and 5.

That means the season will consist of 25 rounds, with the opening games on March 26-28 being revealed.

Champions St Helens start against Challenge Cup runners-up Salford in a repeat of the 2019 Grand Final at Leeds’ Headingley Stadium.

Wigan, who lost the Grand Final in dramatic circumstances, then welcome neighbours Leigh back to the top flight.

The following day sees Wakefield face Leeds before Catalans take on Hull KR, with Hull FC v Huddersfield and Castleford v Warrington on the Sunday.

Rhodri Jones, Super League’s chief commercial officer said: “Confirmation that Magic Weekend remains an important part of the 2021 season shows our commitment to the event and thanks must go to Newcastle United in supporting us to achieve this.

“Whilst it is frustrating for all involved to not be welcoming fans back into our stadiums for the start of the season, we are hopeful that as the situation in the country continues to improve and the vaccine rollout nears completion, we will be seeing fans enjoying live sport again soon.

“We will continue to work with all of our stakeholders to ensure that we are ready to deliver the return of fans in a safe and secure way.”

SUPER LEAGUE OPENING FIXTURES (all at Headingley)

Friday,  March 26 – St Helens v Salford (6pm), Leigh v Wigan (8.15pm)

Saturday, March 27 – Wakefield v Leeds (3pm), Catalans v Hull KR (5.15pm)

Sunday, March 28 – Hull v Huddersfield (12.30pm), Castleford v Warrington (2.45pm)

The fixture list will be published on Friday, February 26.

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