The National Rugby League (NRL) has confirmed that the Wests Tigers, Parramatta Eels, Gold Coast Titans, and Melbourne Storm will be the four teams competing in the season-opening matches in Las Vegas next year. The Tigers will take on the Storm, while the Eels face the Titans on Sunday, February 28 (AEDT) at Allegiant Stadium, marking the penultimate year of the league’s Vegas contract.
Current Standings and Historical Context
As of Round 12 of the current NRL season, none of the four participating teams are positioned in the top eight. The Wests Tigers are the highest-ranked among them, sitting just above 13th place. This selection leaves the Dolphins as the only team in the current premiership that has not yet taken part in the Vegas showcase event. Expansion teams from Perth and Papua New Guinea are expected to enter the competition in time for the final year of the NRL’s deal in 2028.
Tigers’ Change of Heart
The Tigers’ inclusion is notable given that former chief executive Shane Richardson famously stated the club had no interest in playing in Las Vegas. However, the current leadership has embraced the opportunity. Interim CEO Shaun Mielekamp expressed excitement about the announcement.
“We’re really excited to be heading to Vegas in 2027 and taking our members and fans around the world. They have been in lockstep with us throughout our rise over the past two years and it’s a wonderful reward for them,” Mielekamp said. “Applying to head to Vegas next season was a considered decision that closely aligns with the direction we’ve been taking the club. We’ve made significant progress both on and off the field and it proved the perfect time for us to take part in 2027. We’ve done our due diligence - from both a high performance and fan experience perspective - and are excited about the opportunity to start our 2027 campaign on a global stage.”
Storm’s Participation and Player News
It remains uncertain whether master coach Craig Bellamy will remain with Melbourne for the Vegas match and beyond, following his recent health diagnosis. Storm CEO Justin Rodski stated the club is “delighted” to be involved. Players such as Jaydn Su’A (Eels), Jamayne Isaako (Storm), and Mawene Hiroti (Titans) are all in line to make their debuts for their new clubs in the United States.
In addition to the NRL matches, English Super League sides Bradford and Leigh will also clash in Las Vegas.
