Wigan Warriors return vindicated for Ollie Partington after Wembley triumph - ‘This is why I came back’

Ollie Partington says lifting trophies was the reason he returned to Wigan Warriors - and he has already achieved the first target after helping his hometown club beat Hull KR 40-10 in the Challenge Cup final at Wembley.

The 27-year-old rejoined the Warriors ahead of the 2026 season after spending two years with Salford Red Devils and a season in France with Catalans Dragons.

On Saturday, Partington played his part as Matt Peet’s side produced a dominant display under the famous arch to secure a record-extending 22nd Challenge Cup triumph.

For the Billinge-born forward, the occasion was made even more special by the fact that it was his first appearance at Wembley.

“I feel like it’s been a long time coming,” Partington told Wigan Today.

“Ever since I was a little kid, watching the big games in the Challenge Cup down at Wembley - it’s a dream come true.

“I knew this was why I was coming back to Wigan. Matty made it clear that he wanted me to come back and win trophies, and we’ve ticked the first one off.”

Partington admitted the magnitude of the occasion hit him as soon as he stepped out onto the Wembley turf.

“Surreal,” he said. “Running out for the warm-up, the hairs on the back of my neck stood up, and in the second half, that’s when it sunk in.

“We got a few tries, and when I came off for a rest, I was just buzzing, absolutely buzzing to see all my family cheering every time I looked at them, so I was buzzing, mainly for them really.”

The forward had plenty of support in the stands, with family and friends making the trip to London to watch him realise a lifelong ambition.

“In the posh bit I reckon I had about six, and then throughout the stadium I had about 12, so it was good for them as well because they’ve all helped me on my journey in some capacity, so I’m proud to have done it for them,” Partington smiled.

Partington has made no secret of his ambitions since returning to the Cherry and Whites, and while Wembley glory was the first objective, he believes there is more silverware to chase this season.

“This is the reason I came back, to win trophies and that’s the first one ticked off,” he said.

“There’s a couple more to go and get yet but we’ll enjoy this one first and then think about the rest.”

One of the standout performers in Wigan’s emphatic victory was 20-year-old half-back Jack Farrimond, who scored two tries and was awarded the Lance Todd Trophy for his player-of-the-match display.

Farrimond’s performance came in only his 30th first-team appearance and Partington believes the youngster has an enormous future ahead of him.

“It’s the future of British rugby league I’d say,” Partington said. “I’ve heard Matty say that a few times and I fully believe it.

“When his defence is on, you just know that special things are going to happen around him - a bit like Bevan (French) - but to do that at such a young age and to go and win the man of the match, it’s just unreal.

“I’m proud of him because he got some stick earlier this year and he’s proven them all wrong now, hasn’t he? I’m buzzing for him. He’s raw talent, he’s class and I’m absolutely buzzing for him.”