The NRL is gearing up for its second blockbuster season opener in Las Vegas, and this year’s extravaganza promises to be bigger, bolder, and better than the inaugural event. With eight teams, four epic matches, and one incredible venue, rugby league fans are in for a treat as the 2025 season kicks off in style at Allegiant Stadium.
The Match-Ups
Mark your calendars for Sunday, March 2nd (AEDT) when the action kicks off. Here’s what’s on the schedule:
- Super League Clash: Wigan Warriors vs Warrington Wolves (8:30am AEDT)
- NRL Opener: Canberra Raiders vs New Zealand Warriors (11:00am AEDT)
- International Women’s Test: Australian Jillaroos vs England (1:00pm AEDT)
- Heavyweight Clash: Penrith Panthers vs Cronulla Sharks (3:30pm AEDT)
This expanded format includes both Super League representation and women’s international rugby league, showcasing the global reach of the sport.
Spotlight on the Teams
Raiders vs Warriors
The Raiders will be led by captain Joe Tapine as they face a Warriors side bolstered by the addition of star recruit James Fisher-Harris making his club debut. However, the Raiders’ preparation hasn’t been without controversy, with forwards Hudson Young and Morgan Smithies involved in an off-field incident at their Las Vegas hotel. Coach Ricky Stuart has addressed the situation, calling it “irresponsible behaviour,” but both players are expected to be named for the season opener.
Panthers vs Sharks
The four-time reigning premiers Panthers will have to navigate life without Jarome Luai and Sunia Turuva as they begin their quest for an unprecedented fifth straight title. Meanwhile, the Sharks enter a new era with marquee signing Addin Fonua-Blake joining their forward pack. With Nicho Hynes pulling the strings, Craig Fitzgibbon’s men will be looking to make an early statement against the competition benchmark.
The Venue
“The Death Star” awaits. Allegiant Stadium, the $2.15 billion home of the NFL’s Las Vegas Raiders, will host all four matches. The domed stadium has a capacity of 65,000, with NRL officials hoping to attract 50,000 fans to the event. The state-of-the-art facility created an electric atmosphere for last year’s Vegas opener and should provide the perfect stage for rugby league’s American showcase.
Event Week Activities
Rugby league will take over Vegas with a full week of activities leading up to game day:
- Wednesday, Feb 26: Rugby League Fan Hub at Resorts World, official launch event, and USA RL vs Greece RL men’s match
- Thursday, Feb 27: NRL Las Vegas Nines Tournament, Official Rugby League Lunch, and Fan Fest at Fremont Street Experience
- Friday, Feb 28: Day 2 of Nines Tournament, Business of Sport Conference, NRL Talent Combine, and USA vs Greece (Women’s and Men’s)
- Saturday, Mar 1: Game Day Fan Zone and Official Rugby League After Party with T-Pain at Zouk Nightclub
Picking Winners and Making Predictions
As the season kickoff approaches, rugby league enthusiasts everywhere are finalizing their predictions. Whether you’re a seasoned tipster or just getting into the footy tipping scene (which, let’s be honest, is something everyone should experience during the NRL season), the Vegas opener provides the perfect opportunity to test your rugby league knowledge.
For those looking to add even more excitement to their viewing experience, platforms like UPC Showdown let fans pick specific markets for teams and compete for prize pools. It’s a great way to engage with the games beyond just watching them unfold.
How to Watch
Fox League and Kayo will broadcast all the Vegas action, with coverage beginning at 8:00am AEDT on Sunday. For a complete build-up, tune in for special Vegas editions of NRL360 and The Matty Johns Show in the days leading up to the event.
Final Thoughts
The NRL’s Vegas experiment enters its second year with expanded offerings and bigger ambitions. After fans and players alike raved about last year’s experience, expectations are high for an even better spectacle in 2025.
As one 2024 attendee put it: “The fusion of Rugby League with Las Vegas’ electric atmosphere created an unforgettable experience.” Whether you’re making the trip to Sin City or watching from afar, the 2025 NRL season promises to start with a bang.
So lock in your predictions, gather your mates, and prepare for rugby league, Vegas style. The countdown is on!