Australia’s National Rugby League (NRL) is to launch its new season next year in Las Vegas, officials said yesterday, marking the first time NRL games are to be played in the US.
The Brisbane Broncos, Manly Sea Eagles, South Sydney Rabbitohs and Sydney Roosters are to feature in a double-header at the 65,000-seat Allegiant Stadium in March next year.
“The 2024 Las Vegas matches will form part of an exciting ‘Australia Week’ in Las Vegas where we will be showcasing rugby league and Australia to the US market,” NRL chief executive officer Andrew Abdo said in a statement. “Rugby league will be on a stage which the sport has simply never been on before and we look forward to giving all clubs the opportunity in coming years.”
Photo: EPA-EFE
The NRL has long wanted to stage games in the US as a way to grow the sport outside Australia.
NRL bosses have flagged a five-year plan for 10 premiership matches in Las Vegas, featuring all 17 teams, until the end of 2028.
Australian actor Hugh Jackman — a Manly Sea Eagles fan — has reportedly been asked to be Australia Week ambassador.
Sea Eagles chairman Scott Penn called it a “wonderful opportunity” and predicted that Americans would love what they see.
“The speed and physicality of the NRL and the amazing skills of our players will captivate the American sporting public,” Penn said. “And to have the great support of proud Manly man Hugh Jackman and the global reach he has is just incredible. We will do him proud next March.”
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