# NRL international and domestic expansion

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/nrl-international-and-domestic-expansion
> Updated: 2026-09-10T19:56:46.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2.

The National Rugby League (NRL) is pursuing significant international and domestic expansion strategies. To prevent the English Super League from facing bankruptcy, the NRL is nearing a $57 million deal that would involve acquiring a 10% stake in the competition annually, with the goal of controlling half of the European competition by approximately 2031.

Domestically, the NRL is shifting toward an ‘entertainment’ model under the leadership of CEO Peter V’Landys. This strategy aims to maximize television deals and broadcast ratings through rule changes and expansion. Proposed growth plans include adding a team in Perth, followed by potential entries from Papua New Guinea and a 20th team located in either New Zealand or Brisbane.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-10: NRL focuses on entertainment model to drive commercial growth

The NRL is prioritizing its status as an entertainment product to drive commercial growth and expansion, including new teams in Perth and Papua New Guinea, amid debates over the sport's traditional roots.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/nrl-focuses-on-entertainment-model-to-drive-commercial-growth

### 2026-09-10: NRL nears $57M deal to rescue English Super League

The NRL is negotiating a $57 million deal to acquire stakes in the English Super League to stabilize the competition and strengthen the international game.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/nrl-nears-57m-deal-to-rescue-english-super-league

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Cite as: NRL international and domestic expansion. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/nrl-international-and-domestic-expansion