The NRL is hoping to lure one of the most recognisable celebrities in the world to Las Vegas for the launch of season 2026.
That celebrity, courted by 9News’ Danny Weidler in a doorstep interview in Sydney on Thursday, is Oprah Winfrey.
Weidler popped up with his 9News microphone and put a cheeky question to the TV talk show queen, asking Winfrey if she’d like to watch the NRL in Sin City.
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“Yeah, I’d like to see that. Where in Vegas?” replied Winfrey, who’s touring Australia for the first time in a decade.
“Allegiant Stadium, every year,” Weidler said.
“I’m inviting you,” he added.
“OK, invite me,” Winfrey said, nodding her head.
“Thank you.
“And then when I show up, act like you know me.”
Danny Weidler interviewing Oprah Winfrey on a Sydney street. 9News
The mastermind behind the NRL’s Vegas venture, ARL Commission chairman Peter V’landys, was inevitably rapt when told by Weidler that Winfrey wanted to join the rugby league party.
“She’s got it,” V’landys said of the invitation, grinning from ear to ear.
“If we can get Oprah, that would be fantastic. She’s one of the best-known celebrities in the world. I don’t think there’s anyone I can think of that’s better known than her.”
The NRL’s third edition of its Vegas extravaganza will see the Bulldogs and Dragons square off, and the Knights and Cowboys do battle.
The same weekend, February 29 to March 1, will also see Hull KR and Leeds face off in the Super League at Allegiant Stadium.
A shot of Allegiant Stadium during the NRL’s 2025 season launch in Las Vegas. Getty
Having a celebrity of the status of Winfrey in the stands would give the NRL an enormous marketing boost in its efforts to make the game increasingly global.
As revealed by The Sydney Morning Herald during the end-of-year Ashes series in the UK, the NRL is planning to open the 2027 season with nine games across various cities around the world, including London, Dubai and Hong Kong.
“The promotion she can give it over there [in Vegas] would be extraordinary,” V’landys said, “so that’s a big kill if we can get her.”