Overview
- ARL Commission chair Peter V’landys confirmed the NRL is using an AI program for the first time to compile the 2026 schedule.
- The league cited the growing complexity of requests and constraints, including broadcaster and club picks, State of Origin, Magic Round and the Las Vegas fixtures.
- Strong ratings for Sunday afternoon finals this season have prompted formal consideration of a return to a daytime grand final in the next rights deal, potentially from 2028.
- The current agreement locks the grand final into a 7:30pm start for the next two years, with any change to be negotiated in the subsequent TV contract.
- V’landys said discussions are ongoing about playing State of Origin at Eden Park in 2027, clubs have urged firm action over the Rugby 360 proposal, and NRLW season timing is under review.