LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Channel 7 is gearing up to launch a new rugby league show in mid-2025, aiming to solidify its position as a potential NRL broadcast partner and ramp up competition with Channel 9 for future media rights.
The show, set to air on 7 Mate and 7 Plus with a replay on the Seven Network, will debut on Monday or Tuesday nights before the State of Origin series, with the possibility of extending into the NRL finals and becoming a regular weekly program in 2026 if it garners strong ratings.
Seven's owner Kerry Stokes, known for his AFL connections, is firmly behind the project as part of the network's strategic investment in rugby league.
This move comes on the heels of Seven executives' recent meeting with NRL officials in Las Vegas to explore potential collaborations.
The show's launch reflects Seven's commitment to expanding its sports programming and potentially securing a significant stake in NRL media rights in the future.
The network's foray into rugby league programming is a strategic move to diversify its sports content and compete with rival broadcasters.
By launching a dedicated NRL show, Seven aims to attract viewers and position itself as a key player in the competition for NRL media rights.
The success of the new program could have long-term implications for Seven's role in broadcasting NRL matches and further intensify the rivalry between Seven and Channel 9 in the media landscape.
Overall, Channel 7's upcoming NRL show underscores its commitment to expanding its sports coverage and strengthening its presence in the rugby league arena.
With Kerry Stokes's support and strategic investments in the sport, Seven is poised to make a significant impact in the NRL broadcast rights negotiations and potentially become a dominant player in the future of rugby league media coverage.