MAGIC Weekend will once again return to Newcastle in 2022 – but with a new summer date.

Super League have confirmed this morning that St James' Park will once again play host on the weekend of July 9-10 – a first summer date for the concept.

Warrington Wolves will face 2021 League Leaders' Shield winners Catalans Dragons on Sunday, July 10, kick off 3.15pm, as the fixtures were decided based on last season's finishing positions (1st v 3rd, 2nd v 4th, 5th v 7th, 6th v 8th, 9th v 11th and 10th v 12th).

The 2021 event moved to the first weekend in September to take advantage of relaxed Covid-19 restrictions, while previous Magic Weekends have tended to be held over the Spring Bank Holiday Weekend.

“It was great to be back in Newcastle in 2021, and even more so with fans back in the stadium," Super League chief commercial officer Rhodri Jones said.

"We are delighted to be returning to St James’ Park in 2022 and I must thank the football club, Newcastle City Council and NE1 for showing us so much support.

“I look forward to seeing the stadium, fan zone and city brimming with rugby league fans again next year.”

Cllr Ged Bell, cabinet member for development, transport and neighbourhoods at Newcastle City Council, added: “Magic Weekend has firmly cemented itself as one of the highlights of Newcastle’s sporting calendar and I’m delighted that this festival of rugby league is returning to Newcastle in 2022.

“It’s always brilliant to see fans from around the country assemble in Newcastle for an incredibly vibrant and enjoyable weekend.

"They pack the stands of St James’ Park and provide a bumper weekend of trade to the bars, restaurants, hotels and shops in Newcastle and the wider region.

“With this taking place alongside the rearranged Rugby League World Cup which kicks off in Newcastle next year, our relationship with this great sport is set to go from strength to strength in 2022.”

Magic Weekend 2022 fixtures:

Saturday, July 9

Wakefield Trinity vs Toulouse Olympique (2.30pm)

St Helens vs Wigan Warriors (4.45pm)

Leeds Rhinos vs Castleford Tigers (7pm)

Sunday, July 10

Huddersfield Giants vs Salford Red Devils (1pm)

Catalans Dragons vs Warrington Wolves (3.15pm)

Hull FC vs Hull KR (5.30pm)