The NRL has confirmed its 2026 season will kick off in spectacular fashion, with a blockbuster double-header in Las Vegas once again headlining Round 1.
ROUND 1, 2026
Sunday, March 1 (Las Vegas)
- Bulldogs vs Dragons — Allegiant Stadium
- Knights vs Cowboys — Allegiant Stadium
The third consecutive year of NRL action in the United States will see the Bulldogs and Dragons open proceedings at the state-of-the-art Allegiant Stadium, before the Knights and Cowboys face off in an all-Newcastle–North Queensland showdown to complete the Las Vegas double-header.
Following the international showcase, the competition resumes on home soil with a traditional Thursday night season opener between the Melbourne Storm and Parramatta Eels at AAMI Park on March 5.
Friday night features two heavyweight clashes — the Warriors hosting the Roosters at Go Media Stadium, followed by a blockbuster Broncos vs Panthers showdown at Suncorp Stadium, pitting two recent powerhouses against each other in Brisbane.
Saturday’s double-header continues the momentum with the Sharks facing the Titans at Sharks Stadium, while Manly meet Canberra under lights at 4 Pines Park.
The opening round concludes on Sunday, March 8, with the Dolphins taking on the Rabbitohs at Suncorp Stadium, promising another big Brisbane crowd.
The Wests Tigers will have the opening-round bye.
2026 State of Origin Series Set
The NRL has also locked in venues and dates for the 2026 State of Origin Series, with Queensland aiming to defend their 2025 Origin title.
- Game 1: Accor Stadium, Sydney — Wednesday, May 27
- Game 2: Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) — Wednesday, June 17
- Game 3: Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane — Wednesday, July 8
With the series opener returning to Sydney, NSW will be desperate to reclaim the shield in front of their home fans, while Queensland will look to continue their dominance under the lights at Accor Stadium.
The 2026 NRL season promises a high-energy start and a midyear representative series full of intrigue — a perfect blend of international expansion, fierce club rivalries, and interstate passion.
