The Brisbane Broncos will begin their 2027 National Rugby League (NRL) season away from home due to a scheduling conflict with American pop star Bruno Mars’ concert series at Suncorp Stadium. Mars is set to perform two shows in Brisbane on February 28 and March 1, coinciding with the NRL’s opening round, effectively locking the Broncos out of their home ground for the season’s kickoff.
The Broncos had hoped to launch their campaign with a home game, especially after a disappointing 2026 season where they dropped from premiers to 14th place. Instead, the club is expected to start the year with an away fixture, likely facing an opponent in Sydney. The NRL is finalizing the 2027 fixtures with clubs allowed to submit three scheduling preferences, with the final draw due for release on November 16.
Meanwhile, the newly introduced Canberra Bears are preparing to make a high-profile return to the competition, with their first two games planned in Perth. Although the Broncos were considered as potential opponents for the Bears’ season opener, South Sydney is now the favored team to travel to Western Australia for the Bears’ debut. Perth aims to capitalize on the Bears’ fresh presence, offering the franchise a chance to establish early momentum at home despite bookmakers predicting a challenging season.
Concerns have also been raised regarding the timing of the Battle of Brisbane, the local derby between the Broncos and Dolphins. The Dolphins, whose previous home game against the Broncos in round 4 this year started at 7 p.m. during daylight saving time, have requested the NRL reschedule the first derby of 2027 for after daylight saving concludes. Dolphins general manager Terry Reader cited travel and traffic delays as primary reasons, noting that many fans missed the beginning of the game due to congestion.
Other clubs have submitted a range of fixture requests for the 2027 season, reflecting ongoing efforts to foster rivalries, community engagement, and special event matches. The Roosters, reigning premiers, have sought marquee games against Wests Tigers and Canterbury Bulldogs, including hosting the Emergency Services match on a Sunday afternoon late in the season. This event, entering its fourth year, honors New South Wales emergency service workers.
Indigenous Round continues to be a focus with the Roosters requesting a game against the Bulldogs, and South Sydney aiming to again participate in the Gadhu Gathering at Allianz Stadium. The Newcastle Knights have requested a Sunday afternoon home game against the Manly Sea Eagles to commemorate the 30th anniversary of their 1997 grand final victory.
Additional requests include the Sea Eagles wanting to host the Bears at 4 Pines Park to revive a former rivalry, the Warriors planning to move their traditional Anzac Day match to Eden Park in New Zealand, and the Bulldogs retaining their Good Friday and King’s Birthday fixtures. The Dragons seek to stage a marquee match against South Sydney, preferably at Allianz or Accor Stadium. The Melbourne Storm plan to celebrate their 2017 premiership with a home game against the North Queensland Cowboys on Old Boys’ weekend, while the Sharks have asked to play St. George Illawarra on a Saturday night.
The Canberra Raiders have expressed interest in hosting a potential doubleheader in Wagga Wagga, involving both their men’s and women’s teams, pending further discussions with the local council.
The NRL’s final 2027 fixture list will be unveiled next month, balancing commercial, logistical, and fan-related considerations amid a competitive and evolving rugby league landscape.