Australia Rugby League Commission (ARLC) chairman Peter V’landys has warned he is open to moving the NRL decider from Sydney, amid what he describes “enormous” interest from other states.
V’landys has been very vocal about his displeasure with the NSW Government, after threatening to move the Grand Final due to a broken promise from the Liberal Government relating to stadium funding.
The NRL Grand Final has been played in Sydney in all but one year since 1908, with the 2021 decider being moved to Brisbane due to Covid restrictions in NSW.
After the A-Leagues’ recent deal with Destinations NSW to move their Grand Finals to Sydney, V’landys stated that he is open to having a ‘Super Bowl’ bidding system each year.
“Looking at what they've (government) paid for much inferior events they are going to have to get the chequebook out," V'landys told The Daily Telegraph.
“We're in a good position. We could sell the grand final interstate tomorrow. There is enormous interest. Every state in Australia would love to have it.
“It's a major, major event. Outside of the AFL grand final, the Melbourne Cup, State of Origin and The Everest what else is there for national events. It is going to bring far more to Sydney's economy than A-League grand finals.”
V’landys openly admitted he’d like to see the Grand Final stay in Sydney but ensured his focus would remain on doing what is best for the game’s future.
“Our job is to maximise revenue, We have to future proof the game with strong investments,” he said.
“Personally I want the game to stay in Sydney but you've got to do what's best for the game.”
V’landys is yet to open up talks with the NSW Government over the location of the Grand Final and is likely waiting for the outcome of the state election in late March.