Melbourne Storm reportedly turned down a golden opportunity other NRL teams would die for.
Despite being one of the favorites to start the 2025 season in America, the Storm has formally withdrawn from the competition for a spot in Las Vegas next year.
As part of a long-term commitment to play games in the area, the NRL made history earlier this year with a hugely successful double-header featuring the Rabbitohs, Sea Eagles, Broncos, and Roosters at Allegiant Stadium.
The Panthers, Raiders, Sharks, and Warriors are reportedly dominating the race to play in Las Vegas, but it’s still unclear which clubs will be selected to play there in 2019. The NRL is anticipated to announce a decision soon so that supporters have enough time to begin organizing their vacations.
The American matches this season have given the code a significant advantage over the AFL, and clubs are eager to participate in 2025.
What is certain is that the Storm won’t be present, as the team declared on Friday that it had reevaluated their choices in light of newly discovered material.
The statement said, “Storm had expressed interest in being involved in the 2025 fixture, but the club has instead decided to focus on its preparation closer to home after reviewing the proposed terms and conditions provided by the NRL and considering all other factors.”
The Storm played a trial match against the Knights there a few months ago, and while they are still open to playing there in the future, they will be concentrating on Fiji for the time being.
Storm CEO Justin Rodski stated, “We are always looking at new ways to help grow our club and the game more broadly.”
‘The moment is not right for Storm to go to Vegas in 2025, even if we share the NRL’s aim for growth and expansion overseas.
After two trial matches were played outside of Victoria in 2024—including the historic trial match in Fiji—the club will focus its attention on its local supporters, members, and participants.
“We would be delighted to talk about potential future collaborations with the NRL, be it in Vegas, Fiji, or other markets where the game can expand and the Storm can play a part.”
