Newcastle Knights beat Parramatta Eels 30–24 and played the Bulls in the 2002 World Club Challenge.
Bradford came away with a 41–22 victory over the Australian champions thanks to a Robbie Paul double and 2 tries from Michael Withers.
Bradford were knocked out of the Challenge Cup by a Ben Walker inspired Leeds Rhinos.
March 2002 The Bulls started off their Super League defence with a hard fought 18–4 win over last years runners up Wigan Warriors.
Once again the Bulls overcame the challenge set before them as they recorded 4 wins from 4 games by beating Hull F.C.
August 2002 Bradford started August with a bang as they beat local rivals Leeds Rhinos for the first time this year, a Lesley Vainikolo double helped the Bulls to a 46–18 victory at Valley Parade.
The Bulls also beat Wigan Warriors 32–14 however due to a lower points difference Bradford slipped down to 2nd in the table behind St Helens R.F.C.
in the Qualifying Semi-final at Knowsley Road, the Bulls came out on top as they narrowly defeated the Saints 28–26 in a hard fought contest.
however the final second of the game is subject to controversy as Saints captain Chris Joynt gave himself up in a voluntary tackle (a penalty should have gone to the Bulls for this action) in a kickable range which would have given Paul Deacon the chance to win the game 20–19.