NRL Confirms Historic Las Vegas Games For 2027 Season
NRL Confirms Historic Las Vegas Games For 2027 Season...
The National Rugby League (NRL) announced today that Las Vegas will host two regular-season games in March 2027, marking the Australian league's first official matches in the United States. The landmark deal, finalized after months of negotiations, will see the South Sydney Rabbitohs, Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles, Brisbane Broncos, and Sydney Roosters play at Allegiant Stadium.
The move comes as the NRL seeks to expand its global footprint and capitalize on growing American interest in rugby league. Las Vegas was chosen due to its proven ability to host major sporting events and its appeal to international tourists. NRL CEO Andrew Abdo called it "a watershed moment for rugby league" during a press conference in Sydney earlier today.
The games are scheduled for March 6-7, 2027, coinciding with the opening weekend of the NRL season. Ticket sales will begin later this year through Ticketmaster, with special travel packages being developed for Australian fans. Allegiant Stadium, home of the NFL's Las Vegas Raiders, will be configured to accommodate rugby league's unique field dimensions.
This announcement follows successful NRL preseason matches in the U.S. in 2025 and 2026. The league has seen a 37% increase in American viewership since launching its U.S. broadcast deal with Fox Sports in 2024. Las Vegas tourism officials estimate the 2027 games could generate $25 million in economic impact for the city.
Reaction from players has been largely positive, with Rabbitohs captain Cameron Murray calling it "an incredible opportunity to grow our sport." The NRL plans to complement the games with youth clinics and community events throughout Las Vegas during game week. Additional U.S. matches could follow if the 2027 venture proves successful.
The timing of today's announcement coincides with increased U.S. media coverage of rugby league following several high-profile NFL players expressing interest in switching codes. The NRL's Las Vegas push also comes as Major League Rugby, America's domestic professional competition, enters its ninth season with expanded national coverage.
