NRL Season Opens in Las Vegas with Double-Header and International Test Match

The Raiders faced the Warriors, Jillaroos battled England, and Panthers clashed with Sharks at Allegiant Stadium in a landmark event for rugby league.

The NRL kicked off its 2025 season in Las Vegas with a double-header featuring the Raiders vs. Warriors and Panthers vs. Sharks, alongside an international test match between the Jillaroos and England.
The Raiders made key lineup changes, elevating Josh Papalii to the starting side, while the Warriors adjusted their forward pack, including Jackson Ford starting at prop.
The NRL’s Las Vegas venture is part of a multi-year plan, with discussions underway about potentially moving the season opener to London’s Wembley Stadium after 2028.
The event drew significant attention, with an estimated $80 million in economic impact for Las Vegas and strong performances from players like Bevan French in an earlier Super League match.
Off-field incidents included a hotel altercation involving Raiders players Hudson Young and Morgan Smithies, adding to the week’s headlines in Las Vegas.