‘Pacific’s No.1 sport’: NRL trumpets record $845m revenue ahead of broadcast negotiations
Sydney Morning Herald
by Dan WalshFebruary 23, 2026
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The National Rugby League (NRL) has announced record-breaking figures ahead of crucial broadcast negotiations, signaling a strong financial position and growing global influence. In 2025, the NRL achieved an operating surplus of $64.8 million, up from $62.3 million in 2024, with total revenue reaching a staggering $845.6 million—a nearly $101 million increase over the previous year. This financial success comes amid negotiations for a new broadcast deal beyond 2027, with the NRL aiming to surpass the AFL's $4.5 billion TV rights agreement from 2022.
The NRL’s appeal has also grown significantly in terms of viewership, with a 9.5% increase reported by Rugby League Central. Last year’s grand final between Brisbane and Melbourne attracted an impressive 4.55 million viewers across key metro markets, further solidifying the sport's dominance in Australia and the Pacific. ARL Commission chairman Peter V’landys emphasized rugby league’s position as "Australia’s—and the Pacific’s—number one sport," driven by both on-field success and strategic financial management.
Participation numbers have also surged, with over 1 million players now engaging with the sport through various formats like touch and beach football. This growth reflects the NRL’s commitment to expanding its reach beyond traditional fanbases, particularly in regions like Papua New Guinea and Western Australia. The upcoming addition of the Perth Bears in 2027 and the PNG Chiefs in 2028 marks a new chapter in the league’s global expansion strategy.
The NRL’s financial strength has enabled significant investments in grassroots development and international markets. Initiatives such as the annual Las Vegas opener, which debuted last year, aim to replicate the sport’s global appeal in new regions. These efforts not only boost revenue but also foster community connections, giving young athletes opportunities to excel through rugby league.
As the NRL looks ahead, its focus on financial stability, viewer growth, and market expansion positions it as a dominant force in sports entertainment. With negotiations for high-stakes broadcast deals and ambitious plans for global outreach, the NRL’s future appears both lucrative and far-reaching, making it a key player in the evolving landscape of world sport.
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/23/2026