Peter V'Landys, the interim CEO of the NRL and chairman of the Australian Rugby League Commission, has announced plans to expand the league to 20 teams by 2029, with an official announcement anticipated by Christmas.
The concept of a 20-team league has been discussed for a while, but recent seasons have seen a rapid push for expansion.
Since the Dolphins joined in 2023, the NRL plans to introduce the Perth Bears in 2027 and the PNG Chiefs in 2028, increasing the number of teams from 16 to 19 within six years.
The 20th team is scheduled for 2029; without this addition, the league risks financial losses from their new television deal.
Reports indicate that the new team might either be a fifth team in Queensland or a second for New Zealand, with preference leaning toward the latter.
However, News Corp suggests that the second New Zealand team may not be located in Christchurch, where two competing proposals exist: one by the Southern Orcas and another endorsed by the local council.
Instead, it is proposed that the new team could be based in Hamilton, where the Warriors have recently sold out games.
The Warriors have consistently filled stadiums across New Zealand, both during pre-season and regular games, reflecting strong support fueled by their recent success under Andrew Webster, who signed an extension to 2032 this week.