The NRL (National Rugby League) kicked off its new season with a blockbuster opening game in Las Vegas this week, attracting fans from Australia, New Zealand and the United States. The event is expected to generate a massive $100 million in revenue for the local economy, surpassing last year’s $77 million impact.
The 2025 season opener is expected to drive significant economic activity, including increased hotel occupancy and increased spending in the hospitality and entertainment industries. The event further solidifies Las Vegas as a top destination for international sports tourism.
The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) is very pleased with the impact of the NRL. The current NRL contract expires in 2028, and the two parties have begun discussions to renew it.
This year’s event is expected to attract approximately 20,000 Australians, 10,000 British fans and 8,000 New Zealanders to the iconic Las Vegas Strip. The surge in travel demand has led to a surge in air and hotel bookings, and local businesses have reported high levels of engagement from rugby league fans.
ARL Commission Chairman Peter V’landys hailed the event as a success, telling The Daily Telegraph: “It’s already a success. We can generate all sorts of revenue for the game, including promoting it in the US through watchnrl.com.”
V’landys also highlighted the growing significance of the season opener, saying: “The season opener has become a huge event – not just here but in Australia as well. We are celebrating the first round of the NRL in a way that has never been done before.”
The NRL’s Las Vegas opener continues to be a hit, showcasing the league’s global appeal while delivering significant economic benefits to the host city.
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