In 1986, Kylie Minogue kicked off the tradition of headline performances at the NRL Grand Final, bringing a spectacular element to this major sporting occasion.
This year, Australian Rugby League Commission chairman Peter Vlandys has hinted that the entertainment lineup for the NRL Grand Final is "nearly locked in".
Popular acts like Teddy Swims, The Kid LAROI, Jimmy Barnes, and Good Charlotte have graced the stage in previous finals.
Vlandys took the opportunity to emphasize the strength of rugby league as a viewing experience, directly confronting the AFL's Grand Final entertainment strategy.
"We are the most watched sport in Australia, we don't need international pop stars to come in," Vlandys stated in early September.
He reiterated the league's dominant position by mentioning the top ratings for events like State of Origin, asserting, "You won't get a more entertaining sport than rugby league. Other sports need these acts, we don't."
The focus turns to who will ultimately perform this year, as anticipation builds for the Grand Final event.