The favourable 2026 NRL draw handed to premiers Brisbane has raised eyebrows with Canberra boss Don Furner saying it was “orchestrated” for the Broncos.
The NRL released it’s fixtures for next year on Friday and the reigning premiers have 14 games scheduled at Suncorp Stadium.
Additionally, they will play their Magic Round clash as the away team, when the New Zealand Warriors will be the home team in Round 11.
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That means they get an extra home game and they’ll also play their derby clash with the Dolphins at their home ground.
The Broncos will also begin the season with three of their opening four games at home.
The Raiders on the other hand have the bye for Magic Round next season and were on the road ten times in the opening 17 rounds in 2025.
“I think they end up playing 14 games at home because they also play Redcliffe there,” he told reporters.
Canberra Raiders boss Don Furner. Getty
“They are very, very lucky, but I can’t wait for the year they miss out on Magic Round.”
When asked about Brisbane’s luck in being the away team in each otheir Magic Round games, Furner said: “No, that’s orchestrated for them.”
Furner took another dig at the Broncos while stating it was “disappointing” for their fans in Queensland to miss out on seeing their team.
“I can’t wait to see when the Broncos have their turn,” Furner said in relation to the Broncos having the bye for Magic Round.
Former Broncos Corey Parker also criticised the decision not to have the Raiders play in the annual event.
“I’m having a dig at the NRL. The minor premiers, the best team, the most consistent team throughout the course of the season last year, are not there,” he said on SEN.
“(It is) an absolute disgrace … to not see the Raiders, who were the best team last year
“Why aren’t we seeing the minor premiers this year, on the big stage here at Suncorp next year. I think it’s ridiculous.”