Has the NRL made a misstep with no Queensland team for Vegas in 2025?

HYPE for the 2025 NRL Season opener in Las Vegas has reached fever pitch as all four sides have arrived in the US.

The Canberra Raiders, Penrith Panthers and Warriors have all touched down in Sin City, while the Cronulla Sharks are spending their preparation in nearby Los Angeles.

However, not everyone is on board. SEN’s Corey Parker believes the lack of a Queensland side in this year’s Vegas showcase has resulted in a lack of excitement from the Sunshine State.

To open the 2024 season, the NRL chose three NSW and the one Queensland team in the Brisbane Broncos. This year, the NRL has opted for two NSW teams, a team from the ACT and the Warriors representing New Zealand.

“This time last year, we were absolutely all over what was happening over there at Allegiant Stadium,” Parker said on SEN 1170 Breakfast.

“It was amazing seeing the Broncos be a part of it but if I’m being honest, it doesn’t have the same vibe this year.

“I’m not sure if it’s (solely) because there is no Queensland team involved but it has to be (a factor).

“There are four Queensland teams and is anyone here in Queensland actually invested as they were last year?

“It was huge last year with the Broncos going over to Vegas and we still have the Dolphins, Cowboys and Titans (left).

“Some may say the Titans don’t deserve to go to Vegas but do the Canberra Raiders deserve it?

“The Gold Coast would be known to the people of Las Vegas because it’s a holiday destination for Americans.

“Is there an incentive to go? Are the selections based on demand or around marketing?

“It doesn’t seem to have that same build-up in Queensland this year.”

Teams for the 2026 Las Vegas season opener have already been floated, with the St George Illawarra Dragons, Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs and Parramatta Eels rumoured to be in consideration.

The NRL season kicks off with the two Las Vegas games on Sunday, March 2.

The rest of the competition starts back home in Australia on Thursday, March 6 with a game between the Sydney Roosters and Brisbane Broncos at Allianz Stadium.

BY SEN/CHARLES GOODSIR