It was announced this morning that, for the first time ever, a Super League match will take place in the US.

Following the success of Las Vegas hosting NRL games this past March, the Super League will be getting in on the action in 2025 as the Wigan Warriors will take on the Warrington Wolves at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.

Wigan CEO Kris Radlinski had this to say on the announcement: “I think many of us in the UK watched the games in Las Vegas earlier in the year and wished they could be a part of it, either playing or supporting. I spoke to my board about the possibility and there was a unanimous desire to be part of the occasion.” 

“I wrote to Peter V’landys and explained that we were an ambitious club and to kindly consider us for future events. Peter responded positively and put me in contact with his NRL executive team and for the last few months, we have been working through ways to make this happen.”

Radlinski added: “Through my long lasting relationships with Simon Moran and Karl Fitzpatrick at Warrington, I knew that they had similar ambitions and when I spoke to them about it, they jumped at the chance to take part.”

Warrington CEO Karl Fitzpatrick added these comments: “First of all credit must go to Kris Radlinski, Mike Danson and the Board at Wigan for driving this project. When approached about this opportunity we were onboard from the outset. This initiative is fully aligned with our Club’s positioning and ambitions. 

“Playing in one of the World’s best entertainment destinations at a stunning venue is going to be an exciting and memorable experience for our supporters, players and partners. It will also put Super League on the map in a sports market full of opportunity.” 

In addition to the Super League fixture and two NRL games, an international test between England Women and the Australian Jillaroos will be played as part of a day-long festival of rugby league in Las Vegas.

Rhodri Jones, RL Commercial Managing Director had this to say on the historic announcement: “To have Betfred Super League featuring when Rugby League returns to Las Vegas in 2025, as well as an historic international fixture for England Women, is a mouthwatering prospect and a huge opportunity for the sport. We are looking forward to working closely with Wigan Warriors, Warrington Wolves, our commercial and broadcast partners and the NRL to ensure the weekend is another massive success.”

Written by Nathan Major-Kershaw

Quotes source: https://wiganwarriors.com/blog/2024/07/09/warriors-v-wolves-in-vegas/