The Australian Rugby League Commission has secured a landmark $5.3 billion broadcasting agreement, setting the stage for significant expansion and increased global exposure for rugby league. The seven-year deal extends the partnership with existing broadcasters DAZN and the Nine Network, providing the sport with substantial new financial resources to support growth initiatives.
The announcement was made at Rugby League Central by ARL Commission chairman Peter V’landys and NRL chief executive Andrew Abdo, joined by Foxtel chief executive Patrick Delany and Nine Network’s Matt Stanton. While the deal maintains current broadcast partnerships, the record-breaking value reflects confidence in rugby league’s position as a leading sport in Australia and the Pacific region.
V’landys emphasized that the results stem from concerted efforts across the sport, crediting players, clubs, and volunteers for elevating rugby league to the status of Australia’s most-watched program. “Before we went to market, we needed to have something to sell and we are now the most viewed program in Australia and in the Pacific,” he said, asserting rugby league’s prominence despite competing claims from other sports.
A major component of the deal is the involvement of DAZN, a global streaming platform with around 100 million subscribers in 200 countries. This partnership opens opportunities to showcase rugby league internationally, aligning with V’landys’s ambition to globalize the game. Plans include introducing a 20th team—most likely based in New Zealand—as early as 2029, as well as exploring future expansion to Europe or the United States.
The agreement also allows for innovative initiatives such as a Global Round, where NRL games are played in various countries to promote the sport abroad. Discussions are underway about restructuring the competition calendar, including the possibility of shortening the State of Origin series and adjusting club fixtures to accommodate international ambitions. However, the final decisions on the schedule will rest with the NRL, which has reclaimed control over the draw.
In the immediate term, the NRL will expand next season’s competition to include an 18th team and an additional fixture. While the precise timing of the extra game remains undecided, sources suggest a Sunday night slot may be favored to optimize game turnarounds.
Overall, the broadcasting deal represents a watershed moment for rugby league in Australia, equipping the sport with the financial muscle and strategic flexibility to pursue both domestic growth and a stronger global footprint.