The Wests Tigers have been confirmed as one of the four NRL teams to participate in Rugby League Las Vegas 2027.
The Wests Tigers will face the Melbourne Storm on Sunday, February 28 (AEDT), joining the Parramatta Eels and Gold Coast Titans as well as the Super League’s Bradford Bulls and Leigh Leopards in the annual rugby league extravaganza.
Wests Tigers interim CEO, Shaun Mielekamp said confirmation of the club’s participation in Las Vegas was a great result for members and fans.
“We’re really excited to be heading to Vegas in 2027 and taking our members and fans around the world. They have been in lockstep with us throughout our rise over the past two years and it’s a wonderful reward for them,” Mielekamp said.
“Applying to head to Vegas next season was a considered decision that closely aligns with the direction we’ve been taking the club. We’ve made significant progress both on and off the field and it proved the perfect time for us to take part in 2027.
“We’ve done our due diligence, from both a high performance and fan experience perspective, and are excited about the opportunity to start our 2027 campaign on a global stage.
“An opportunity like this wouldn’t be possible without the support of our board and the Holman Barnes Group, they are right behind this initiative and have been giving us all the support we need to make it possible.”
Mielekamp said that the club has a number of plans already under way for Rugby League Las Vegas 2027 that will be announced in due course.
“We’re focused on making this a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those who join us in Las Vegas – everything from travel to events and hospitality.”
Wests Tigers chair Barry O’Farrell also welcomed the announcement the Wests Tigers would travel to Las Vegas.
“We know this is something our fans have been waiting for, and we’re glad to have made this possible at a time that’s suitable for our growth as an organisation,” Mr O’Farrell said.
“This announcement is the result of some fantastic work right across the club, ensuring we’re well prepared to make a strong start to our campaign on the field and to provide a first-class fan experience off it.
“Seeing the Wests Tigers step out onto Allegiant Stadium will be an unforgettable moment we can share as fans of this great club, and we’re looking forward to seeing everyone get behind Benji and the boys.”
With the team struggling on the field, the Las Vegas news couldn’t have come at a better time.
The Wests Tigers have a bye this round (12), something else they could do with after three heavy losses in a row.
Their next outing will be on Saturday, May 30, when they host the Bulldogs at Parramatta Stadium, 5.30pm kick-off.
Victory there would help the Tigers get their campaign back on track and a finals place for the first time since 2011.