The National Rugby League (NRL) has signed a seven-year domestic broadcast agreement worth AUS$5.3 billion (US$3.68 billion) with Foxtel, Nine, and Sky NZ, according to reports from the Australian Financial Review. Starting in 2028, the deal represents a 90 per cent increase over the previous contract and surpasses the AFL’s current seven-year deal valued at AUS$4.5 billion.
Foxtel and Nine Secure Dominant Rights Packages
Foxtel will pay a reported annual fee of AUS$520 million (US$361.2 million) to maintain rights to all NRL and NRLW regular season and Finals Series matches, the Australian Financial Review reports. This figure is more than double the network’s previous annual payment for league games. Under the terms, the DAZN-owned company will also receive a share of international rights revenue—excluding New Zealand and Papua New Guinea—in exchange for marketing the league globally.
Nine Network retains exclusive free-to-air coverage of the NRL Grand Final and both the men’s and women’s State of Origin series. Nine will also simulcast three weekly NRL and NRLW fixtures for a reported annual cost of AUS$150 million (US$104.2 million). However, the volume of NRLW games on free-to-air television will decrease to 33 matches per season starting in 2028.
Sky NZ Agreement and Regional Distribution
In New Zealand, Sky will hold exclusive rights to the NRL, NRLW, and State of Origin. The broadcaster will distribute over 130 fixtures on its free-to-air platform, Three (TV3). The Australian Financial Review reports that Sky will pay approximately AUS$50 million (US$34.7 million) per year for these rights.
Expansion Plans and League Growth Strategy
The new agreement includes a specific clause allowing the NRL to expand to 20 clubs by the 2029/30 season. Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) chairman Peter V’Landys stated at a press conference that a potential 20th team could be based in Queensland or New Zealand. This follows the scheduled entry of the Perth Bears as the 18th franchise next year, with the Papua New Guinea (PNG) Chiefs expected to join a year later.
If the league expands to 20 teams, Foxtel will broadcast one additional game per week. V’Landys described the deal as a move that “future proofs the game” for the next 20 to 50 years, providing the capital necessary to acquire assets and pursue global growth.
Comparison of Major Australian Sports Broadcast Deals
| League | Contract Value | Duration | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| NRL | AUS$5.3 Billion | 7 Years (from 2028) | Signed |
| AFL | AUS$4.5 Billion | 7 Years (began 2024) | Active |
Financial and Operational Impact
The ARLC will now maintain control over the draw, granting the league greater scheduling flexibility than in previous cycles. Regarding fan accessibility, V’Landys noted that a “vital requirement” was ensuring the sport remained affordable for viewers, a goal he says was achieved through the agreement with DAZN.
The AUS$5.3 billion figure does not include potential revenue from the league’s international expansion. According to V’Landys, the ARLC expects this total to increase substantially as the league implements its global ambitions.
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