Peter V’landys Unveils Staggering $100 Million Vegas Proposal as New Deal Approaches: ‘They Definitely Want Us Back’

Peter V’landys, the chairman of the Australian Rugby League Commission, has announced that a significant agreement is on the horizon to secure the future of the NRL’s rugby league festival in Las Vegas.

The league has a current five-year contract aimed at promoting the sport in the US market, with the multi-game tournament and associated fan festival set to run until 2028.

Following a successful second year of the event, there have been increasing calls for the NRL to expand the festival further.

When asked if Las Vegas is keen for the NRL to extend its rugby league presence in America for an additional decade, V’landys confirmed that partners are enthusiastic, highlighting the substantial economic impact the event has generated.

“That’s correct,” he stated during Nine’s broadcast on Sunday (Aussie time).

The tourist board reported that the NRL brought in a $100 million economic boost to Vegas.

“When we first arrived last year, people thought we were dreaming by predicting how many fans we would attract here,” he shared.

This time around, we had close to 17,000 Australians, 8,000 from New Zealand, and 10,000 from England, which is a significant influx into the Vegas community. They definitely want us back.”

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With the addition of a Super League fixture and a women’s Test match to this year’s agenda, V’landys indicated he would be pursuing enhanced sponsorship opportunities in the upcoming year.

“I anticipate that our fee will significantly increase, and they may even need to part with a kidney,” he joked.

Given the rising demand for this must-do trip, V’landys mentioned that the league is exploring ways to enhance the Vegas experience in future years.

“I’ve gained more insights this year compared to last,” he noted.

“Last year felt a bit hectic. This year, I’ve taken the time to observe everything we’ve accomplished, and I believe we can achieve far more.”

“We’ve made tremendous strides, and we’ve engaged highly regarded sports management experts in the US who have bolstered our confidence in how we can penetrate the American market.”

“I’m very optimistic that by the fifth year, we’ll make a substantial impact in the US. I’m feeling much more assured than I was last year.”

Reflecting on the atmosphere at Allegiant Stadium, V’landys expressed pride in the league’s accomplishments this second year.

“I’m immensely proud of the team, the players, and everyone who contributed to this event. I’m merely the captain,” he stated.

“This is a monumental occasion.”

“I’ve been informed that pubs and clubs across Australia are buzzing with excitement as the NRL season kickoff is being celebrated. This encapsulates the spirit of what we aim to achieve.”