The Premier, the Pope, and the Boss: NRL Grand Final Up for Grabs

The National Rugby League’s (NRL) grand final may be up for grabs in 2028, but what’s really at stake is not just the prestige of hosting this prestigious event. At its core, the decision revolves around a complex interplay of politics, finance, and logistics.

Western Australia Premier Roger Cook has thrown his state into the ring with a bid to host the grand final, citing Perth’s proven track record in hosting large-scale sporting events, including the AFL grand final at Optus Stadium in 2021. This success demonstrates that Perth can handle the pressure of a high-profile competition.

However, the decision is complicated by the visit of Pope Leo XIV, which has created a scheduling clash with the NRL’s traditional timing for the grand final. The pressure on police and transport resources will be immense if both events are held in the same city. Sources close to the negotiations suggest that Western Australia is willing to pay up to $20 million to host the grand final – almost twice as much as New South Wales has offered.

The NRL’s Australian Rugby League chairman, Peter V’landys, has noted that the league can tap into new markets and create a bucket-list experience for fans by taking the grand final on the road. This approach has been successful in other countries, where hosting teams bring their fans with them. The lure of Perth as an alternative venue is undeniable.

The decision to relocate the grand final will have far-reaching implications for the sport as a whole. It will not only affect New South Wales and its Premier Chris Minns but also impact the loyalty owed to the state. As V’landys aptly put it, “as a business, we have to look at every option.” The NRL must now weigh up the benefits of taking the grand final on the road against the loyalty owed to New South Wales.

The entry of the Perth Bears into the NRL next year will undoubtedly bring new energy to the competition and fresh opportunities for tourism and economic growth. Western Australia’s bid is not just about showcasing its sporting prowess but also an opportunity to put itself on the map as a destination for major events. The outcome of this decision will be closely watched, as it has significant implications for the future of rugby league.

The NFL’s Super Bowl model offers a tantalizing prospect for the NRL – holding the grand final in various cities each year can create a more vibrant and dynamic competition that benefits fans, players, and sponsors alike. As V’landys so enthusiastically noted, “you can bring them over, go to Margaret River, go to Rottnest Island … It’s not going to be just a one-day visitation; you’re looking at three, four, five days.” The NRL must now consider the long-term benefits of this approach and make a decision that will shape the future of rugby league.