Directors and sponsors took turns to line up alongside Rhinos’ senior players and staff. The official team picture also included 11 youngsters who have yet to make a first team appearance or be awarded a squad number. The rookies (all on the back row) were: George Brown, Fergus McCormack, Harley Thomas, Zak Lloyd, Jacob Stead, Joseph Butterfield, Oscar Brown, Oliver Smart, Marcus Qareqare, Harry Smith and Joe Diskin.
Rhinos will send a young side to Castleford Tigers for former Leeds treble-winner Brad Singleton’s testimonial game on Sunday and coach Brad Arthur plans to field his first-choice lineup six days later at home to Bradford Bulls in a benefit game for Cameron Smith.
Rhinos travel to either Thatto Heath Crusaders or Widnes Vikings in the Betfred Challenge Cup third round on the weekend of February 7-8 and their Super League campaign kicks off at Leigh Leopards on Friday, February 13. Yorkshire Evening Post photographer Jonathan Gawthorpe was at Rhinos’ media day. Here’s 16 of his best pictures.
7. Leeds Rhinos 2026 media day
Awaiting Leeds Rhinos' 2026 team picture. Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
8. Leeds Rhinos 2026 media day
Rhinos players get ready for their 2026 team picture. Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
9. Leeds Rhinos 2026 media day
Lachie Miller and Cameron Smith lark about before Leeds Rhinos' team picture. Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
10. Leeds Rhinos 2026 media day
Why can't we do this in July? Leeds Rhinos coach Brad Arthur flanked by Mikolaj Oledzki and Ash Handley. Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
11. Leeds Rhinos 2026 media day
Coach Brad Arthur is interviewed at Leeds Rhinos 2026 media day. Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
12. Leeds Rhinos 2026 media day
Another view of Leeds Rhinos' team picture. Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe